Computer controlled display device

ABSTRACT

The present invention is a computer controlled display device. In one embodiment, the display device includes a flat panel display having an input for receiving display data. Additionally, a moveable assembly may be coupled to the display. The moveable assembly may provide at least three degrees of freedom of movement for the flat panel display device. Additionally, the moveable assembly may have a cross-sectional area, which is substantially less than a cross-sectional area of a display structure of the flat panel display.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is related to and claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application 60/438,553 entitled “COMPUTER CONTROLLEDDISPLAY DEVICE,” filed Jan. 6, 2003, the contents of which areincorporated by reference herein. This application is aContinuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/035,417entitled “COMPUTER CONTROLLED DISPLAY DEVICE,” filed Nov. 8, 2001 nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,819,550, the contents of which are incorporated byreference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The field of the invention relates to computers and data processingsystems, and more particularly to support mechanisms for supportingdisplay devices for computers or data processing systems.

BACKGROUND

The advent of flat panel display devices has revolutionized thearchitecture and aesthetic appearance of computers. Lightweight andversatile, flat panel display devices (FPDDs) may be mounted almostanywhere. A variety of mechanical support devices have been designed tohold FPDDs in suitable viewing positions.

Many FPDDs are supported by rigid assemblies or mechanisms which may beaffixed to furniture, walls, or ceilings. Recently, semi-moveablesupport devices (e.g. swing arm devices) have made their debut. Suchdevices are typically hinged in one or more places, and their displayends may be equipped with swivel joints. Though offering a greaternumber of viewing positions, semi-moveable support devices often provedifficult to adjust, and routing data and power cables along exteriorportions of the devices can mar aesthetic appearances.

In many semi-moveable support devices, two hands are required to adjustthe display's viewing position. Typically, one hand supports the FPDDwhile the other manipulates a locking device on a hinged joint.Twist-and-lock swivel joints have a knob or handle which may be rotatedin one direction to increase the holding friction, or in the oppositedirection to decrease holding friction. Increasing the holding frictionlocks the support device in a desired position. Similarly, decreasingthe holding friction allows the swivel joint to move freely through apredetermined range of movement.

Twist-and-lock swivel joints are effective, but awkward to use, anddifficult to break free if overtightened. On the other hand, ifundertightened, twist-and-lock swivel joints will allow a supported FPDDto sag and droop. Moreover, it is not uncommon for a semi-moveablesupport device to have a plurality of twist-and-lock swivel joints,which makes it virtually impossible for a single user to tighten orloosen all the joints simultaneously. With a plurality of swivel joints,adjustment times are considerably lengthened because the swivel jointsmust be adjusted individually.

A swivel ball joint (e.g. gimbal) affixed to the display end of the armmechanism allows a supported FPDD to be tilted or angled as desired.Because the holding friction exerted by the swivel ball joint is more orless constant, the user force needed to tilt the FPDD sometimesdislodges the support arm mechanism from its fixed position. Set screwsmay be provided to adjust a swivel joint's applied holding friction.However, one shortcoming of swivel joints equipped with set screws isthat movement of the joints often feels rough, gritty, or ratchety.

Referring now to FIG. 1A, there is shown a set of pictures illustratingexemplary environments in which support mechanisms for flat paneldisplay devices (FPDDS) may be used. As shown in picture 110, flatscreen monitor arms are used in offices, schools, universities,government agencies, and other environments to provide adjustablesupport and correct length between the display and the viewer. As shownin picture 111, additional mounting solutions may be provided toincorporate FPDDs into corporate environments such as banks, financialinstitutions, trade and brokerage companies, and similar businesses.

FIG. 1B illustrates two further pictures illustrating additionalenvironments in which FPDDs may be used. Picture 112 shows that FPDDsmay be used in industrial areas such as manufacturing facilities,production lines, and assembly lines. Picture 113 represents the use offlat panel display devices in hospitals, health care facilities, andmedical centers. In each case, the FPDD is attached to a moveablesupport device that is fixedly attached to a large, heavy object, suchas the wall or floor of a building.

FIG. 1C is a diagram of a prior art moveable support device 100.Moveable support device 100 may be attached to a horizontal planarsurface, such as a desktop, using clamp 106, which adjusts toaccommodate different thicknesses of various support surfaces. The baseof moveable support device 100 includes a housing 105, which is aremoveable cosmetic covering that conceals a hollow screw mechanism usedto affix clamp 106 to a support surface. The base of moveable supportdevice 100 includes a cylindrical steel rod that removably slides withinthe hollow screw mechanism described above. In the embodiment shown, anarc of vertical movement measuring approximately 72.5 degrees may beprovided by turn and lock swivel joint 103. Similarly, a second arc ofvertical movement measuring approximately 115.0 degrees may be providedby turn and lock swivel joint 107.

Moveable support device 100 is made up of three arm members 101, 102,and 117, connected to each other by two twist and lock swivel joints 107and 103. A ball swivel joint (e.g. gimbal) 108 attached to the displayend of arm member 101 provides a supported FPDD 109 with an arc ofmovement, measuring in one dimension, approximately 78.0 degrees. Theweight of the supported FPDD 109 is counterbalanced using an internalspring and pulley mechanism (not shown). Cables 120 and 121, whichprovide power and data, respectively, to FPDD 109, are attached to theexterior of moveable support device 100 using a plurality of retentionguides 123. The various components of moveable support device 100 aremanufactured from various materials, including, but not limited to:metals, plastics, and composite materials.

FIG. 1D is a diagram illustrating a prior art gooseneck lamp 118.However, the inclusion of this lamp is not to be construed as anadmission that lamps are analogous art to the present invention.Typically, components of lamp 118 include a weighted or magnetic base116, a hollow, moveable assembly portion 115, and a bulb housing 114. Anelectrical wire may run inside or outside the neck portion 115.Typically, the weight of bulb housing 114 is negligible compared to theweight of the base 116 and of the neck portion 115 itself. Otherwise,neck portion 115 would droop, or lamp 118 would topple over.

In most cases, neck portion 115 is manufactured of a jointed, spiral-cutmetal skin that is easily flexed into one of a number of desiredpositions. A plurality of plastic or metal ball-and-socket assembliesmay be used to form neck portion 115. Where ball-and-socket assembliesare used, the holding force may be provided by a tension cable runningthrough the ball-and-socket assemblies that loops about a cam attachedto a twist-lever disposed on or near the base 116. Twisting thetwist-lever in one direction stretches the cable and stiffens neckportion 115. Twisting the twist-lever in the opposite direction relaxesthe cable, thereby dissolving the holding force, and allowing the neckportion 115 to collapse.

The ball-and-socket assemblies may be formed of either metal or plastic,but metal is typically used because it is stronger and more durable thanplastic. A problem with prior art ball-and-socket assemblies is that thefriction provided by a metal ball mating with a metal socket will notsustain heavy loads. While capable of supporting a lightbulb or othersmall lightweight object, prior art ball-and-socket assemblies aresimply incapable of supporting large heavy objects, such as FPDDs, whichtypically weigh in excess of two pounds.

SUMMARY

The present invention is a computer controlled display device. In oneembodiment, the display device includes a flat panel display having aninput for receiving display data. Additionally, a moveable assembly maybe coupled to the display. The moveable assembly may provide at leastthree degrees of freedom of movement for the flat panel display device.Additionally, the moveable assembly may have a cross-sectional area,which is substantially less than a cross-sectional area of a displaystructure of the flat panel display. Other embodiments and aspects ofthe invention are described below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various aspects of the present invention are set forth in the followingdrawings in which:

FIG. 1A is a diagram illustrating a moveable support device, common inthe prior art, and used to support a computer display in a home oroffice environment, or in a corporate environment.

FIG. 1B is a diagram illustrating a prior art wall mounted supportdevice for displaying computer displays in a manufacturing or industrialenvironment, or in a medical environment.

FIG. 1C is a diagram illustrating a side view of the prior art moveablesupport device 110 shown in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1D is a diagram illustrating a side view of a prior art goosenecklamp.

FIG. 1E is a diagram of a conventional computer system which may be usedwith a moveable support device and flat panel display device (FPDD),according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2A is a cut-away, perspective view of a moveable assembly andactuator assembly for supporting a FPDD, according to one embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 2B is a rear view of the actuator assembly and moveable assemblyshown in FIG. 2A (without the base), according to one embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 2C is a plan view of the actuator assembly and moveable assemblyshown in FIG. 2A (without the base), according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 2D is a side view of the actuator assembly and moveable assemblyshown in FIG. 2A (without the base), according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the overturning moments of a computerdisplay coupled with a moveable assembly and a base, according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4A is a diagram illustrating a sectional side view of the actuatorassembly and moveable assembly, according to another embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 4B is an exploded side view of a portion of a moveable assembly ina relaxed state, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating a moveable assembly 500, according toone embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5B and FIG. 5C are perspective views of the moveable assembly 500shown in FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5D is a sectional view of one embodiment of a moveable assembly 500showing the internal placement of a tension cable 590.

FIG. 5E is a cross-sectional view of a portion 560 of a moveableassembly usable with an embodiment of the present invention showing theplacement of data, tension, torsion, power, antenna, and other computersystem related cables within one or more apertures of the moveableassembly.

FIG. 6 is a perspective, exploded view of an actuator assembly andmoveable assembly, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 7A is a sectional side view of an actuator assembly in a firsttensioned position, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 7B is a sectional side view of an actuator assembly in a seconduntensioned position, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of an actuator assembly,according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of an actuator housing, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9B is another view of the actuator housing of FIG. 9A, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9C is a plan view of the actuator housing of FIG. 9A, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9D is a cross-sectional view of the actuator housing of FIG. 9Ataken along the lines A—A in FIG. 9C, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 9E is a cross-sectional view of the actuator housing of FIG. 9Ataken along the line B—B in FIG. 9C, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a crank, according to one embodimentof the present invention.

FIG. 10B is a plan view of the crank of FIG. 1A, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10C is a side view of the crank of FIG. 1A, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10D is a bottom view of the crank of FIG. 1A, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a tongue, according to one embodimentof the present invention.

FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of a tongue of FIG. 11A, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11C is a top view of a tongue of FIG. 11A, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11D is an end view of a tongue of FIG. 11A, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a spring shaft, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12B is a side view of the spring shaft of FIG. 12A, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12C is a sectional view of the spring shaft of FIG. 12A taken alongthe line A—A in FIG. 12B, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 12D is an end view of the spring shaft of FIG. 12A, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13A is a perspective view of a strut, according to one embodimentof the present invention.

FIG. 13B is a plan view of the strut of FIG. 13A, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13C is a sectional view of the strut of FIG. 13A taken along theline A—A in FIG. 13B, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 13D is an end view of the strut of FIG. 13A, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14A is a perspective view of a shaft, according to one embodimentof the present invention.

FIG. 14B is a side view of the shaft of FIG. 14A, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15A is a perspective view of a display termination socket,according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15B is a sectional view of the display termination socket of FIG.15A taken along the line A—A in FIG. 15C.

FIG. 15C is a plan view of the display termination socket of FIG. 15Aaccording to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a diagram of a tension cable, according to one embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIG. 17A is a perspective view of a friction limit socket, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17B is a plan view of a friction limit socket of FIG. 17A,according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17C is a sectional view of the friction limit socket of FIG. 17A,according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18A is a perspective view of a limit ball, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18B is a plan view of the limit ball of FIG. 18A, according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18C is a sectional view of the limit ball of FIG. 18A, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19A is a perspective view of a friction socket assembly, accordingto one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19B is a perspective view of a first friction insert, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19C is a sectional side view of the friction insert of FIG. 19Ataken along the line A—A in FIG. 19F.

FIG. 19D is a top view of the friction insert of FIG. 19A, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19E is a side view of the friction insert of FIG. 19A, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19F is a bottom view of the friction insert of FIG. 19A, accordingto one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19G is a perspective view of a second friction insert of FIG. 19A,according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19H is a sectional side view of the friction insert of FIG. 19Gtaken along the line A—A in FIG. 19K, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 19I is a top view of the friction insert of FIG. 19G, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19J is a side view of the friction insert of FIG. 19G, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19K is a bottom view of the friction insert of FIG. 19G, accordingto one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a friction assembly, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21A is a perspective view of a base termination ball, according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21B is a bottom view of the base termination ball of FIG. 21Aaccording to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21C is a sectional view of the base termination ball of FIG. 21Ataken along the line A—A, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIGS. 22A–22C are side views showing examples of moveable assemblieswhich incorporate aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 23A is a perspective view of a computer system 2300 having a base2305 and a moveable assembly 2304 that supports flat panel displaydevice 2301.

FIG. 23B is a perspective view of another embodiment of a computercontrolled display device including a FPDD 2301 coupled with a moveableassembly 2304, which is coupled with a base 2305.

FIG. 23C is a side view of the computer system 2300 shown in FIGS. 23Aand 23B, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 23D is a rear-view of the computer system 2300 shown in FIGS.23A–23C, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 23E is a front view of the computer system 2300 of FIGS. 23A–23D,according to one embodiment of the invention, and showing FPDD 2301,viewing surface 2302, and base 2305.

FIG. 23F is another side view of the computer system 2300 of FIGS.23A–23E, according to one embodiment of the invention, and showing FPDD2301, actuator assembly 2306, moveable assembly 2304, and base 2305.

FIG. 23G is a side view of another embodiment of a moveable assembly2302 coupled with a FPDD 2310 and with an actuator assembly 2300A,according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a tongue 2400,according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 24B is a cross-sectional view of a tongue of FIG. 24A, according toone embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24C is a top view of a tongue of FIG. 24A, according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24D is an end view of a tongue of FIG. 24A, according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 25A is a perspective view of a spherical glide bearing 2500,according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 25B is a bottom view of a spherical glide bearing 2500 of FIG. 25A,according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 25C is a side view of a spherical glide bearing of FIG. 25A,according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 25D is a top view of a spherical glide bearing of FIG. 25A,according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 25E is a sectional side view of a spherical glide bearing of FIG.25A, taken along the line A—A in FIG. 25D.

FIG. 26A is a perspective view of a socket glide bearing, according toone embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 26B is a side view of a socket glide bearing, according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 26C is a plan view of a socket glide bearing of FIG. 26A, accordingto one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 26D is a cross-sectional view of a socket glide bearing of FIG. 26Ataken along the line A—A in FIG. 26C, according to one embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 27A is an exploded perspective view of a socket assembly 2700,according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 27B is cross-sectional view of an assembled socket assembly of FIG.27A, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 28 is an exploded perspective view of an actuator assembly 2800,according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 29A is a perspective view of a socket assembly 2900, according toanother embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 29B is a cross-sectional view of a socket assembly 2900 of FIG.29A, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 29C is a detailed view of area A circled in FIG. 29B.

FIG. 30A is a perspective view of a spring shaft assembly 3000,according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 30B is a cross-sectional view of a spring shaft assembly 3000 ofFIG. 30A, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 31A is a perspective view of a friction limit socket, according toanother embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 31B is a top view of a friction limit socket of FIG. 31A, accordingto one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 31C is a cross-sectional view of a friction limit socket of FIG.31A, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 31D is a detailed view of an area A circled in FIG. 31C, accordingto one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 32A is a perspective view of a tension cable assembly 3200,according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 33A is a perspective frontal view of a computer system 3300including a flat panel display 3310 and a moveable base 3306 coupledwith a moveable assembly 3302, according to another embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 33B is perspective rear view of a computer system 3300 including aflat panel display 3310 and a moveable base 3306 coupled with a moveableassembly 3302, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 33C is a side view of a computer system 3300 including a flat paneldisplay 3310 and a moveable base 3306 coupled with a moveable assembly3302, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 33D is a front view of a computer system 3300 including a flatpanel display 3310 and a moveable base 3306 coupled with a moveableassembly 3302, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 33E is a rear view of a computer system 3300 including a flat paneldisplay 3310 and a moveable base 3306 coupled with a moveable assembly3302, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 33F is another side view of a computer system 3300 including a flatpanel display 3310 and moveable base 3306 coupled with a moveableassembly 3302, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 34 depicts a simplified sectional side view of a computer system3400 usable with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 35 is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of themoveable assembly 3401 of FIG. 34.

FIG. 36 shows an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a baserotation assembly 3600, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 37 is an exploded perspective view of a display mounting assembly3700, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 38 is an exploded, perspective view of a moveable assembly 3800,according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 39A is an exploded, perspective view of one embodiment of a springassembly 3900, according to one embodiment of the invention, showingvarious internal component parts associated therewith.

FIG. 39B is a perspective view of an assembled spring assembly 3900,according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 40 is a force diagram illustrating one embodiment of a computersystem 4000 that includes a base 4030 attached to one end of a moveableassembly 4040 and a flat panel display device 4050 attached to the otherend of the moveable assembly 4040, in which a display weight 4010 iscounterbalanced using a spring force 4020.

FIG. 41 is a graph depicting illustrative counter-balance sum of momentsfor a moveable assembly, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 42 is a graph depicting illustrative counter-balance sum of momentswith error bars for a moveable assembly, according to one embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 43A depicts one embodiment of a counterbalance adjustment mechanismin a first position.

FIG. 43B depicts one embodiment of a counterbalance adjustment mechanismin a second position.

FIG. 44 is a graph depicting counter-balance with manufacturing errorbars after tuning for a moveable assembly, according to one embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 45 is a graph depicting the pitch counter-balance sum of momentsfor one embodiment of a moveable assembly.

FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view of the moveable assembly 3401 of FIG.34, showing placement of data, power, and other computer system-relatedcables therein, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 47 is a side view of one embodiment of a computer controlleddisplay system.

FIG. 48A is a sectional side view of one embodiment of the moveableassembly 4702 shown in FIG. 47.

FIG. 48B is a cross-sectional side view of moveable assembly 4800 takenalong the line A—A in FIG. 48A.

FIG. 48C is a cross-sectional view of moveable assembly 4800 taken alongthe line B—B in FIG. 48A.

FIG. 49A is a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of the moveableassembly 4800 taken along the line A—A in FIG. 48A.

FIG. 49B is a cross-sectional view of moveable assembly 4900 taken alongthe line A—A in FIG. 49A.

FIG. 49C is a cross-sectional view of moveable assembly 4900 taken alongthe line B—B in FIG. 49A.

FIG. 50A is a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of the moveableassembly 4800 taken along the line A—A in FIG. 48.

FIG. 50B is a cross-sectional view of moveable assembly 5000 taken alongthe line A—A in FIG. 50A.

FIG. 50C is a cross-sectional view of moveable assembly 5000 taken alongthe line B—B in FIG. 50A.

FIG. 51 is a sectional side view of one embodiment of the moveableassembly 4702 shown in FIG. 47.

FIG. 52 is a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of moveableassembly 5100 shown in FIG. 51.

FIG. 53A is a sectional side view of one embodiment of the moveableassembly 4702 shown in FIG. 47.

FIG. 53B is a cross-sectional view of moveable assembly 5300, takenalong line A—A in FIG. 53A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An apparatus and method for supporting flat panel display devices isdisclosed. In the following detailed description, numerous specificdetails are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding ofthe present invention. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinaryskill in the art that these specific details need not be used topractice the present invention. In other circumstances, well-knownstructures, materials, or processes have not been shown or described indetail in order not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention.

FIG. 1E depicts one embodiment of a conventional computer system thatmay be used with a display device as described herein. The computersystem 151 interfaces to external systems through a modem or networkinterface 167. It will be appreciated that the modem or networkinterface 167 may be considered part of computer system 151. Thisinterface 167 may be an analog modem, an ISDN modem, a cable modem, anEthernet interface, a satellite transmission interface (e.g. Direct PC),or other network interface for coupling a digital processing system toother digital systems (e.g. the interface 167 couples computer system151 to a local computer network or to the internet).

The computer system 151 includes a processor 153 which may be aconventional processor, such as a Motorola Power PC microprocessor or anIntel Pentium microprocessor. Memory 155 is coupled to processor 153 bythe bus 157. Memory 155 may be dynamic random access memory (DRAM) andmay also include static RAM (SRAM). The bus 157 couples the processor153 to the memory 155 and also to mass memory 163 and to displaycontroller 159 and to the I/O (input/output) controller 165. Displaycontroller 159 controls in the conventional manner a display on the FPDD161, which may be a liquid crystal display device or other flat paneldisplay device (e.g. organic light emitting diode display, vacuumfluorescent on silicon display, field emissive display, plasma display,etc.). The display controller 159 is coupled to the display 161 througha cable 160, which in one embodiment provides display data and power andcontrol signals between the display 161 and the display controller 159.

The input/output devices 169 may include a keyboard, disk drives,printers, a scanner, a digital camera, and other input and outputdevices, including a mouse or other pointing device. The displaycontroller 159 and the I/O controller 165 may be implemented withconventional well-known technology. The mass memory 163 is often amagnetic hard disk, an optical disk, or other form of storage for largeamounts of data. Some of this data is often written, by a direct memoryaccess process, into memory 155 during the execution of software in thecomputer system 151. It will be appreciated that the computer system 151is one example of many possible computer systems which have differentarchitectures. For example, Macintosh or Wintel systems often havemultiple buses, at least one of which may be considered to be aperipheral bus.

Network computers may also be considered to be a computer system whichmay be used with the various display devices described herein. Networkcomputers may not include a hard disk or other mass storage, and theexecutable programs are loaded from a network connection (e.g. throughnetwork interface 167) into the memory 155 for execution by theprocessor 153. A Web TV system, which is well-known in the art, may beconsidered to be a computer system according to the present invention,but it may not include certain features shown in FIG. 2B, such ascertain input/output devices.

A cell phone, a personal digital assistant, or a digital camera having asuitable display interface (to couple to a display device as describedherein) and a processor and memory may also be considered to be adigital processing system or a computer system which may be used withthe present invention. A typical computer system will usually include atleast a processor, a memory, and a bus coupling the memory to theprocessor. It will also be appreciated that computer system 151 istypically controlled by an operating system software which includes afile management system and a disk operating system.

Referring again to FIGS. 1E and 2A, in one embodiment of the invention,certain elements of the computer system 151 (e.g. processor 153, memory155, bus 157, mass memory 163, display controller 159, I/O controller165, an optical drive (not shown), and possibly also interface 167) arehoused in a moveable enclosure 242A which is coupled to the base 242 ofthe moveable assembly (shown in FIGS. 2A–2D as moveable assembly 200).The opposite end of the moveable assembly is coupled with a FPDD (e.g.display 240, which corresponds to display 161). In this one embodiment,a cable is disposed within an interior portion of the moveable assembly200 and couples the display 240 to the display controller 159, whichprovides display data to the display 240 through the cable 160. Thecable may also provide power and the control signals (if any, such asbrightness or contrast signals sent by an input device on the FPDD 240to the system 151) to the FPDD 240.

In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, the moveable enclosure 242A is smallenough and light enough to be picked up and moved by a single adultperson, and yet is heavy enough to support the FPDD 240 at variousdifferent positions without tipping. The moveable enclosure 242A neednot be physically attached (e.g. by clamps or adhesive or otherfixtures) to a support surface (such as a desk, shelf, counter, ortable) because its size, weight, and shape are sufficient to support themoveable assembly 200 and FPDD 240 at various positions without tipping.

It will be appreciated that the size, shape, and weight of moveableenclosure 242A vary according to the length of the moveable assembly 200and the weight and size of the FPDD to be supported. Illustratively, aFPDD 240 may measure approximately 6.0 inches or more, as measureddiagonally across its viewing surface from one corner to an oppositecorner, and may weigh approximately 1.5 pounds or more.

Regardless of the embodiment, the size, shape, and weight of moveableenclosure 242A should be selected such that no tipping occurs when themoveable assembly 200 is bent approximately ninety degrees fromvertical. Preferably, no tipping occurs when a downward user force ofapproximately 2.0 lbs to approximately 3.0 lbs is applied to FPDD 240when moveable assembly 200 is bent approximately ninety degrees fromvertical.

In one embodiment, the bottom surface area of moveable enclosure 242Ameasures in the range of approximately 0.5 square feet to approximately4.0 square feet. The system is designed to support a FPDD 240 weighingin the range of approximately 5.0 lbs to approximately 6.0 lbs, atapproximately 25.0 lbs of user force. Illustratively, the length of themoveable assembly 200 may range from approximately 7.0 inches toapproximately 48.0 inches.

In another embodiment, where moveable assembly 200 and/or display 240are remotely (e.g. wirelessly or otherwise) coupled with moveableenclosure 242A, the base 242 of moveable assembly 200 may be clamped orotherwise fastened to a ground surface or an overhead surface. Base 242of moveable assembly 200 may also be clamped or otherwise fastened to asubstantially planar surface (e.g. desktop) or vertical surface (e.g.wall or side of a desk). Remote coupling may be accomplished using awireless system or using extended lengths of power and data cables.

Still referring to FIG. 2A, moveable assembly 200 may be coupled withFPDD 240, as shown. Components of moveable assembly 200 may include: anactuator assembly 202, a display termination ball 222; a friction limitball 226; a base 242; and a plurality of cables 234, including a tensioncable, anti-torsion cable, data, microphone, power supply cables, andother cables.

As shown in FIG. 2A, actuator assembly 202 may be centrally and fixedlycoupled with a backside of flat panel display device (FPDD) 240 usingany of a number of suitable attachment methods (e.g. bolts, welds,adhesives, etc.) well-known in the art. Actuator assembly 202 isprovided to reduce the amount of user force needed to collapse themoveable assembly. Typically, a user force of approximately 180 poundsto approximately 400 pounds is required. However, actuator assembly 202reduces this force to an amount easily provided by an adult user (e.g.approximately 10.0 pounds to approximately 30.0 pounds). In the views ofFIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 4A, and 4B, several of the ball-and-socketcomponents are not shown in order to provide views of the cables whichare within the ball-and-socket components.

Actuator assembly 202 may be wholly contained within a housing of FPDD240 such that handle 241 may afterwards be coupled with a component ofactuator assembly 202 via insertion through an opening in the housing.Handle 241 may be formed of a single piece or of multiple pieces of astiff, durable material such as metal, plastic, or a composite material.Exemplary metals include steel, aluminum, titanium, and alloys thereof.

In one embodiment, a proximal end of handle 241 may be shaped to include(or may be coupled with) a finger support member 260, which provides afirst compression surface. Finger support member 260 may be made of thesame or a different material that comprises the remainder of handle 241,and may take any suitable aesthetic or ergonomic shape, size, orcontour. Similarly, a distal end of handle 241 may be pivotably coupledwith one or more components of actuator assembly 202 such that handle241 functions as a lever arm. As shown in FIG. 2A, handle 241 is angledaway from the backside of FPDD 240 such that the proximal end of handle241 is positioned near an edge of FPDD 240. In one embodiment, the edgemay be the left-hand edge of FPDD 240 as viewed from the back (e.g.right-hand edge as viewed from the front).

In one embodiment, a tension cable, coupled at one end with base 242 andcoupled with a component of the actuator assembly 202 at the other,functions to keep the balls 226 and sockets 227 generally aligned. Whentensed as shown in FIG. 2A, the tension cable locks the moveableassembly 200 in a desired viewing position by forcibly pressing balls226 against friction inserts in sockets 227. Pulling the proximal end ofhandle 241 towards the backside of FPDD 240, relaxes the taut tensioncable such that spring activated plungers in sockets 227 lift balls 226away from the friction inserts to allow moveable assembly 200 to bemanipulated into a desired configuration. Once achieved, the desiredconfiguration may be “frozen” or locked into position simply byreleasing handle 241.

In one embodiment, a user may adjust the viewing position of FPDD 240 bygrasping the left-hand and right-hand edges of FPDD 240 with both hands.The user's palms may rest on portions of the front surface of FPDD 240,with the fingers of each hand naturally curling behind FPDD 240 to reston either its backside or on the finger support member 260. Assuming anembodiment like that shown in FIG. 2A, the user may relax moveableassembly 200 by compressing the fingers of the right-hand against thefirst compression surface, which is the finger support member 260previously described, while simultaneously compressing the palm of theright hand against a second compression surface, which is a portion ofthe front surface 240A of FPDD 240. This compressing moves the proximalend of handle 241 from a first tensioned position towards the back ofthe FPDD 240, while simultaneously moving the handle's distal end awayfrom the back of FPDD 240. As the distal end moves away from the back ofFPDD 240, the tensioned cable relaxes and the formerly rigid moveableassembly becomes flexible.

Once moveable assembly 200 is relaxed, the user may adjust the viewingposition of FPDD 240 using one or both hands. For example, in anotherembodiment, the user may compress handle 241 with one hand, whilemanipulating moveable assembly 200 with the other. A desired viewingposition may be locked in place by opening the fingers of the handcompressing the handle to allow the handle 241 to move from a secondrelaxed position back to the first tensioned position.

Referring now to FIG. 2B, a back view of moveable assembly 200 is shown.In this view, it can be seen that display termination ball 222 andactuator assembly 202, in one embodiment, are positioned substantiallyin the center of the back of FPDD 240 in order to provide an axis ofrotation substantially near FPDD 240's center-of-mass. In otherembodiments, display termination ball 222 and actuator assembly 202 maybe non-centrally positioned on the back surface of FPDD 240. As shown inFIG. 2B, the outermost edge of handle 241 may be substantiallycoterminous with an edge of FPDD 240, or not.

Referring now to FIG. 2C, there is shown, according to one embodiment ofthe invention, a plan view of FPDD 240 and moveable assembly 200. Thegap 290 between handle 241 and a back surface of FPDD 240 is moreclearly shown. In one embodiment, this distance measures approximately50.0 mm to approximately 70.0 mm. Gap 290 represents the distancethrough which handle 241 moves during a power stroke (e.g. depressingthe handle to release the tension holding the FPDD 240). In anotherembodiment, where actuator assembly 202 is enclosed within a housing ofFPDD 240, the gap may measure approximately 50.0 mm to approximately70.0 mm. The size of gap 290 may be determined based on the averagemeasurements of an adult human hand, which average may be calculatedfrom combined measurements of approximately 10 adult male andapproximately 10 adult female hands. Optimally, the size of gap 290should fall within the range of an adult human's maximum gripping power.Additionally, the size of gap 290 and the length of handle 241 should becoordinated to yield a maximum power stroke from a minimal applied userforce. In one embodiment, the applied user force is within the range ofapproximately 10.0 to approximately 45.0 lbs. However, futuredevelopments in technology may reduce the amount of applied user forceto approximately 10.0 pounds or less. It will be appreciated that suchdevelopments are to be construed as falling within the scope of thepresent invention.

Referring now to FIG. 2D, there is shown, according to one embodiment ofthe invention, a side view of moveable assembly 200. As shown in FIG.2D, moveable assembly 200 may be positioned in a variety of sculpted,curved, bent, or spiral positions. As evident from the above Figures,the cable path length of the centrally-positioned tension cable remainssubstantially constant when moveable assembly 200 is bent or curved.However, the path length of data and power supply cables may varybecause they pass through cable guides that are located non-centrallywithin the interior of balls 226. Accordingly, an additional length ofcable slack approximately equal to about ⅓ of the tension cable lengthmay be included within the moveable assembly 200 for the data and powersupply cables. In other embodiments, where the FPDD's power supply isself contained or wirelessly broadcast, and/or where the FPDD's datatransmissions are wirelessly broadcast, moveable assembly 200 maycontain only tension, torsion, and power cables.

It can be seen from FIGS. 2B, 2C, and 2D that the display surface area240A of the FPDD 240 (which is usually most (e.g. more than 75%) of thesurface area of the front surface of the FPDD) is substantially larger(e.g. at least 10 times larger) than a cross-sectional area of themoveable assembly 200 (which may be referred to as a neck). Thiscross-sectional area is a cross-section of the moveable assembly takenperpendicularly relative to the length of the moveable assembly (e.g.the cross section obtained at line 2D—2D shown in FIG. 2D). Thiscross-sectional area is typically a small fraction (e.g. about 1/50 toabout ⅙) of the display surface area 240A. It will be appreciated thatthe display surface area is the surface on which the display data (e.g.a graphical user interface such as the Macintosh OS X or Windows 2000)is displayed to a user of the computer system.

Overturning Momements and General System Data

Referring now to FIG. 3, there is shown a diagram of exemplary torquesand overturning moments associated with one embodiment of the invention.The three components of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, are thebase computer system 310A, the moveable assembly 310B, and the FPDD310C. The base computer system 310A corresponds to the moveableenclosure 242A, and also includes a base which secures the moveableassembly 310B to the base computer system 310A. The base computer system310A, in one embodiment, includes certain elements of the computersystem (e.g. referring to FIG. 1E, a processor 153, memory 155, bus 157,mass memory 163, I/O controller 165, interface 167, and a CD-ROM driveor other types of optical drives) and is coupled electrically to theFPDD 310C through a power and data cable (or cables), which providespower to the FPDD 310C and provides data for display on the FPDD 310C(and optionally conveys data, such as control signals, from controls onthe FPDD 310C to the computer system in the base computer system 310A.In one embodiment, such cable (or cables) are housed and concealedwithin the interior of moveable assembly 310B and are not normallyvisible to a user.

The moveable assembly 310B mechanically couples the base computer system310A to the FPDD 310C. In one embodiment, this coupling is through aseries of ball-and-socket joints which are held together by a tensioncable within the ball-and-socket joints. The moveable assembly 310B ismechanically coupled to the base computer system 310A at a base end ofthe moveable assembly 310B and is mechanically coupled to the FPDD 310Cat a display end of the moveable assembly 310B.

Referring to the embodiment of FIG. 3, base radius (rb) 307 measuresapproximately 4.72 inches, while a neck bend radius (RN) 303 of themoveable assembly measures approximately 3.00 inches. In one embodiment,the total length of the moveable assembly measures approximately 15.00inches; the weight of the moveable assembly (Wn) 302 measuresapproximately 1.76 pounds; the weight of FPDD and actuator mechanism(Wd) 301 measures approximately 5.00 pounds; and the weight of the base(Wb) 304 measures approximately 12.00 pounds.

Using these exemplary measurements, together with an estimated distance309 of approximately 13.29 inches, and an estimated distance 308 ofapproximately 6.64 inches, the upward force (Fu) 306 at the displayneeded to overturn the system is calculated to be approximately 9.25pounds, while the downward force (Fd) 310 needed to overturn iscalculated to be approximately 1.22 pounds. In one embodiment, distance309 is measured from base center-of-mass to display center-of-mass.Similarly, distance 308 is measured from the base's center-of-mass tothe moveable assembly's center-of-mass.

It will be appreciated that increasing the weight of the base will tendto improve the stability of the entire assembly. It is preferable thatthe base, and the rest of the assembly, should not be so heavy that itcannot be easily moved by a single human user (e.g. an adult user). Forexample, it is preferable that the whole assembly should be less thanabout 45 pounds (lbs) and have a footprint on the surface on which itrests of less than about four (4) square feet. Normally, the weight andsize of the base (including the base computer system) are designed, asdescribed herein, to counterbalance the weight of the moveable assemblyand FPDD 310C so that the FPDD 310C can be selectively positioned atmany possible positions (X, Y, Z, pitch, yaw, roll), and the wholeassembly is still stable (e.g. does not tip or overturn). Thus, there isno need, normally, to require the base computer system to be fixedlyattached to the surface on which it rests; no clamps or suction oradhesive are, in a preferred embodiment, normally needed to maintainstability of the entire assembly.

Display

In one embodiment, the FPDD 240 illustratively shown in FIGS. 2A–2D, isa 15 inch LCD panel having a target weight of approximately 4.20 pounds(1.94 kg). The 15.0 inch length is a diagonal distance measured from onecorner of the viewing area to an opposite corner.

Moveable Assembly (E.G. Neck Member)

In one embodiment, the weight of the moveable assembly 200 shown inFIGS. 2A–2D is approximately 2.0 pounds (0.907 kg), including the balls,sockets, and cables. In one embodiment, the overall articulation length(as measured along a longitudinal dimension of the member 200) ofmoveable assembly 200 is approximately 15.5 inches (39.37 cm), and itsmaximum cantilever distance is approximately 13.5 inches (34.29 cm). Themoveable assembly 200 provides the ability to move the FPDD in at leastthree degrees of freedom and preferably six degrees of freedom (X, Y, Z,pitch, yaw, and roll). Another example of a moveable assembly isdescribed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/035,417 entitled“COMPUTER CONTROLLED DISPLAY DEVICE,” filed Nov. 8, 2001, the contentsof which are incorporated by reference herein.

Ball-and-Socket Data

In one embodiment, there are 10 sockets, 9 articulated balls, and 2fixed termination balls. The diameter of each ball measuresapproximately 38.00 mm, and the target articulation angle betweensegments measures +/−14 degrees.

Tension Cable Data

In one embodiment, 3/16 inch stainless steel aircraft cable having 7×19construction (e.g. 0.01 inch strands) is used for the tension cablepreviously described. The tension cable may be covered in a nylon jacketto approximately 0.25 inch diameter, and may be equipped with a ballshank ferrule on the actuator mechanism end and also equipped with astop ferrule on the base end. Because the tension cable is centrallypositioned within the interior of the moveable assembly, it will beappreciated that the tension cable path length remains substantiallyconstant. It will also be appreciated that the tension cable is notlimited to a particular length, but that the length of the tension cablemay vary depending on the length of the moveable assembly. (e.g. in oneembodiment, the tension cable may be approximately 398.90 mm long).

On the other hand, because data, power, microphone, and other computersystem-related cables are routed along the outer interior regions of themoveable assembly, it will be appreciated that the path length of thesecables is not constant, but changes as the moveable assembly is twistedor bent. Accordingly, additional lengths of data, power, andcommunications cables may be provided to accommodate the path lengthchange. Illustratively, the additional lengths may measure approximately20% to 30% more than the straight line path length. The straight linepath length is the path length measured from one end of the moveableassembly to the other when the moveable assembly is in a substantiallystraight, non-twisted, unbent position.

Friction Inserts

In one embodiment, each abrasive socket assembly contains two abrasiveinserts. A first abrasive insert has a base portion containing aninternal thread, while the second abrasive insert has a base portionhaving a corresponding external thread. The interior surfaces of theabrasive inserts are concave and may be coated with granular materialssuch as silica, aluminum oxide, or tungsten carbide. In one embodiment,the interior surfaces of the abrasive inserts are brazed with tungstencarbide particles having an approximate grain size of about 0.12 mm. Inthis one embodiment, the friction surface coverage is approximatelyequivalent to # 140 grit. Additionally, travel of the annular plungersis approximately 0.25 mm per interface.

In a further embodiment, a spherical glide ring may be inserted withinthe socket assembly in place of the abrasive insert. Additionally, oneor more rims of the abrasive socket assembly may be equipped with anabrasive ring, as described below.

Actuator Mechanism

In one embodiment, a lever ratio of the actuator mechanism isapproximately 11:1; and the mechanism stroke ranges from approximately0.0 mm to approximately 0.7 mm, with an operating range of approximately0.0 mm to approximately 0.5 mm. In one embodiment, the user stroke range(nominal) is approximately 50.0 mm to approximately 70.0 mm. The userforce, in one embodiment may range from approximately 20.0 toapproximately 25.0 pounds. In other embodiments, the user force may beless than approximately 20.0 pounds. The creep adjustment range may beapproximately 3.0 mm. The force adjustment range may be approximately+/−60.0 pounds (e.g. 0.25 inch adjustment @ 400 pounds/inch).

Moveable Enclosure (E.G. Base Computer System):

In one embodiment, the moveable enclosure has a weight in the range ofapproximately 12.0 pounds to approximately 13.0 pounds, with a footprintdiameter of approximately 240.0 mm. It will be appreciated that the baseis not limited to one particular size, weight, shape, or appearance.Rather, heavier bases may have smaller footprints, and vice versa.Additionally, the bottom surface of the moveable enclosure may be largeror smaller than the top surface. The bottom of the moveable enclosuremay also be equipped with a non-slip surface. In one embodiment, thenon-slip surface may be a tacky, spongy, rubber-like material. Inanother embodiment, the non-slip surface may be a rubber suction device.In a further embodiment, the non-slip surface may be a magnetic orelectromagnetic device. Additionally, the base may be equipped with oneor more input devices (e.g. push buttons, touch sensitive buttons, touchsensitive screens, etc.), peripheral ports, or peripheral devices (e.g.DVD and CD-ROM drives, speakers, etc.). As previously described, one ormore components of a computer may be housed within the moveableenclosure.

Loads

It will be appreciated that the moveable assembly 200 is not limited tosupporting a particular load, but that moveable assembly 200 may bedesigned to accommodate a variety of loads. In one embodiment, themoment sum at the base socket is calculated, thus:Display+Mechanism: 5.2 lbs×13.5 inches=70.2 inches*poundsMoveable Assembly: 2.0 lbs×6.5 inches=13.0 inches*poundsTotal:=83.2 inches*pounds.

In one embodiment, an estimated holding torque at the base isapproximately 125.0 inches*pounds, with an estimated margin ofapproximately 1.5.

Moveable Assembly Displacement Estimates

The following table provides exemplary measurements associated with oneembodiment of the present invention.

TABLE 1 Item mm % Notes Cable Elastic Stretch @ 0.66  11% Calculatedbased on datasheets 250 lbf Long Term Stretch 0.20  3% 0.001 inch perinch per VerSales @ 60% of rated load Compression 1.20  19% Estimatebased on experimental data Geometric Path Length 0.40  6% Calculatedbased on geometry Change Cable Bending Stiffness 0.60  10% Estimatesbased on empirical data Thermal Expansion 0.17  3% Calculated based on70° C. temperature change Plunger Travel 3.00  48% Based on oneembodiment (0.25 mm × 12) Total (Estimated) 6.23 100%Assemblies and Components

Referring now to FIG. 4A, there is shown a cross-sectional top view of amoveable assembly 400, actuator assembly 400A, and FPDD 440, accordingto one embodiment of the invention. Tension cable 490 runs throughcentral portions of balls 426 and terminates at the display end in aball ferrule 434, which is coupled with distal end of handle 460. Inanother embodiment, ball ferrule 434 may be coupled with a crank (notshown), which is coupled with handle 460. In FIG. 4A, the distal end ofhandle 460 is coupled with a strut 409, which is coupled with a springor piston assembly 470. The crank, handle 460, strut 409, and spring orpiston assembly 470 are further described below.

Principle of Operation

Experiments performed to test the suitability of support mechanismshighlighted two significant drawbacks: substantial holding friction andthe need to support the flat panel display device with one hand whilemanipulating the friction actuating device with the other. Although,gooseneck designs, such as a group of ball-and-socket joints, providemore degrees of freedom and a wider range of viewing positions thantraditional support mechanisms, they require large amounts of holdingfriction to support heavy objects like flat panel display devices(FPDD's) in stable positions. Typically, the amount of holding frictionrequired is greater than an adult user can overcome (e.g. 180–400 lbs ormore). In cases where the holding friction is of an amount (e.g. 20–30lbs) that can be easily overcome by an adult user, the prior artgooseneck-like support mechanisms gradually droop, or suddenly failaltogether, causing damage to the FPDD.

In gooseneck designs, where the friction actuating mechanism is disposedon or near the base of the support mechanism, users must manipulate thefriction actuating device with one hand while simultaneously supportingthe FPDD with the other to keep the FPDD from dropping and beingdamaged. The disadvantages of such systems are that they are awkward andtime consuming to use.

With reference to FIGS. 4, 7A, and 8, operation of the actuatingmechanism leverages conservation of energy principles to reduce theamount of user force required to relax the tensioned moveable assembly(e.g. neck) 400. During assembly, tension cable 490 is stretched with anapplied force (e.g. tension) of approximately 200.00 to approximately400.0 pounds. This applied force compresses resilient members (e.g. wavesprings) 480 and plungers 428 such that balls 426 contact frictioninserts 430 and 431. As the moveable assembly 400 is compressed (e.g.tensioned), kinetic stretching energy associated with an applied userforce is converted to elastic potential energy, which is stored in thetensioned cable 490 and in the wave springs 480.

Because the tension cable 490 and the wave springs 480 are not masslessand ideal (e.g. having no internal friction when compressed orstretched), a portion of the kinetic stretching energy is “lost” (e.g.converted to other forms of energy, such as heat); however, the overallmechanical energy associated with the system remains constant. Thestretched tension cable 490 and the compressed wave springs 480 (e.g.resilient members) exert a restoring force perpendicular to the distalend of handle 460 that tends to pull the stretched cable back into itsoriginal unstretched position. Because one end of the tension cable isattached to the distal end of handle 460 (e.g. distal end of tongue 705in FIG. 7A), the restoring force tends to pull the handle's (ortongue's) distal end upwards, which tends to move the proximal end ofhandle 460 (or tongue 705) downwards, which tends to move a lower end ofstrut 409 (or 709 in FIG. 7A) laterally against spring/piston assembly470 (or spring assembly 711 in FIG. 7A). Thus, in one embodiment, movingthe actuator from a second state (e.g. the distance separating theactuator handle from the back of the FPDD is minimized) to a first state(e.g. the distance separating the actuator handle from the back of theFPDD is maximized) transfers a portion of the elastic potential energystored in a compressed spring/piston assembly into elastic potentialenergy stored in a tensioned tension cable and in a plurality ofresilient members. At the same time, the remaining stored elasticpotential energy is converted to work done on the user and to kineticenergy of the actuator.

In a preferred embodiment, the spring constant of spring assembly 711(FIG. 7A) or 811 (FIG. 8) is chosen such that the spring force exertedby spring or piston assembly 470 (or 711 in FIG. 7A) on strut 409 (or onspring shaft 708 and 806 in FIGS. 7A and 8, respectively) equals orslightly exceeds the restoring force exerted by the tensioned cable andwave springs. In this manner, the moveable assembly 400 (FIG. 4A)remains compressed and rigid. An illustrative range of spring constantsmay include: approximately 180.0 lbs/in to approximately 200.0 lbs/in,but preferably approximately 190.0 lbs/in.

Referring back to the embodiment shown in FIG. 4A, depressing proximalend 451A of handle 460 moves strut 409 laterally to compressspring/piston assembly 470. Simultaneously, the distal end of handle 460moves upwards to relax the tension cable 490 and decompress the wavesprings. Depressing proximal end 451A of handle 460 converts mechanicalenergy (e.g. that provided by the user depressing the handle 451) andpotential energy (e.g. that stored in the tensioned cable and compressedwave springs) into kinetic energy as strut 409 moves laterally tocompress spring/piston assembly 470 (e.g. 711 in FIG. 7A). This kineticenergy is converted into elastic potential energy, which is stored inthe compressed spring/piston assembly 470. Likewise, releasing proximalend 451A of handle 451 converts the spring's stored elastic potentialenergy into kinetic energy as strut 409 moves laterally to depress thedistal end of handle 451. This kinetic energy is stored as potentialenergy in cable 490 is tensioned the wave springs as the moveableassembly is compressed.

Similar conversions of energy occur with respect to the embodimentsshown in FIGS. 7A and 8. These conversions of energy allow the moveableassembly to wilt instantly upon depression of the proximal end of handle460 toward the back of the FPDD, and to stiffen instantly upon releaseof the proximal end of handle 460. The FPDD, in one embodiment, may bemoved/re-positioned over at least three (and up to as many as five orsix) degrees of freedom from a single actuation (e.g. depression) of thehandle (actuator), rather than having to loosen two or more locks inorder to obtain the ability to move the FPDD simultaneously in more thanone degree of freedom.

It will be appreciated that the energy stored in the tensioned cable 490and in the compressed wave springs (e.g. resilient members) 480significantly reduces the amount of user force required to compressspring/piston assembly 470 (or spring assembly 711 in FIG. 7A). Forexample, in a preferred embodiment, compression of spring/pistonassembly 470 (or 711) requires an applied user force in the range ofapproximately 10.0 to approximately 30.0 lbs.

With reference to FIG. 7A, it will also be appreciated that the amountof applied user force required to compress the spring/piston assembly470 (or 711) may be further reduced by modifying the angle at which thedistal end of tongue 705 (or handle 751) connects with tension cable709.

Description of Component Parts

Referring again to FIG. 4A, spring or piston assembly 470 may be one ofa number of suitable pre-manufactured metal springs or gas pistonassemblies known in the art, so long as the spring or piston assembly470 exerts a restoring force of approximately 200.0 pounds/inch. In oneembodiment, the exterior dimensions of spring or piston assembly 470measure approximately 2.0 inches to approximately 2.25 inches long.Illustratively, the restoring force exerted by the spring or pistonassembly 470 may fall within the range of approximately 180.0pounds/inch to approximately 400.0 pounds/inch. In one embodiment, thespring or piston assembly 470 may include a resilient member, which whencompressed, exerts a restoring force tending to return the compressedresilient member to its uncompressed state. Examples of resilientmembers include: metal springs, springs made of composite materials,hydraulic pistons, etc.

In FIG. 4A, a display termination ball 424, having a substantiallyplanar mating surface connects moveable assembly 400 to FPDD 440, butany suitable attachment method, such as bolts and/or interlockinggrooves, may be used to attach display termination ball to FPDD 440.Anti-torsion cable 491 may be provided to prevent moveable assembly 400from over-twisting and stretching the data, microphone, and/or the powersupply cables.

Additional components of the moveable assembly are now described. In oneembodiment, the diameter 459 of balls 426 measures approximately 38.00mm, while the diameter 458 of tension cable 490 measures approximately6.25 mm. The center-to-center distance 457 between balls 426 measuresapproximately 36.00 mm; and the height of socket assembly 427 maymeasure approximately 24.00 mm. The length 451 of handle 460, measuredfrom a proximal end 461 to a pivot pin 462 measures approximately169.277 mm. The distance 455, measured from the center of tension cable490 to the center of pivot pin 462, is approximately 15.830 mm; whilethe distance 454, measured from the center of tension cable 490 to aproximal end 463 of spring or piston assembly 470, is approximately153.60 mm. In one embodiment, width 453 of FPDD 440's exterior casingmeasures approximately 21.162 mm. In another embodiment, the powerstroke distance 452, measured from proximal end 461 to the front surfaceof FPDD 440, is approximately 89.924 mm.

Referring now to FIG. 4B, there is shown a cross-sectional view ofmoveable assembly 400. As shown, tension cable 490 runs through cableguides in the center of balls 426, and anti-torsion cable 439 runsthrough cable guides spaced apart from the center of balls 426. As shownin FIG. 4B, balls 426 and sockets 427 may bend approximately +/−14.0degrees to curve moveable assembly 400 into a desired shape. However, inother embodiments, balls 426 and sockets 427 may bend a greater orlesser amount.

Referring now to FIG. 5A, there is shown a side view of an assembledmoveable assembly 500, including actuator assembly 502 (but without theFPDD and the base of the moveable assembly and the base computerdisplay). In one embodiment, the length 551 of moveable assembly asmeasured from surface 503 of base termination ball 533 to surface 504 ofdisplay termination ball 522, measures approximately 397.00 mm.

FIGS. 5B and 5C show perspective views of one embodiment of moveableassembly 500.

FIGS. 5A–5C show the moveable assembly with all of the ball-and-socketcomponents (and hence the data, tension, power, and anti-torsion cablesare concealed).

FIG. 5D is a sectional view of one embodiment of a moveable assembly 500showing the internal placement of a tension cable 590. Moveable assembly500 includes socket assemblies 570A and 570B, and a ball 560 having afirst hollow cavity 551 and a second hollow cavity 552 separated by acentral wall in which are located an annular ring 598, bore 516, andbore 510, each of which extend from one side of the central wall to theother. In one embodiment, the inside surfaces 598A and 598B of annularring 598 are bowed slightly to taper outwards such that the slidingfriction between a tension cable 590 passing through the interior ofannular ring 598 is minimized. Bores 510 and 516 contain a torsioncable, not shown, which prevents data and power cables (not shown)contained within other bores (not shown) from being damaged or stretchedby over-rotation. As shown in previous figures, friction socket assembly570A includes a first plunger 592A, a resilient member 594A, and asecond plunger 596A. Similarly, friction socket assembly 570B includes afirst plunger 592B, a resilient member 594B, and a second plunger 596B.

FIG. 5E is a cross-sectional view of a portion 560 of a moveableassembly usable with an embodiment of the present invention showing theplacement of data, tension, torsion, power, antenna, and other computersystem related cables within one or more apertures 508, 512, 514, 504,506, 520, and 516 of the moveable assembly. In one embodiment, portion560 of the moveable assembly is a friction limit ball, having a wall(e.g. brace) containing a plurality of apertures (or bores) centrallylocated therein. Apertures 510, 516, and 520 are substantially circularin cross-section, while apertures 508, 514, 504, and 506 are irregularlyshaped. Anti-torsion cables 512 and 518 extend through apertures 510 and516, respectively, while torsion cable 590 extends through aperture 520.In one embodiment, one or more of the irregularly shaped apertures mayinclude one or more data, power, antenna, and/or similar computersystem-related cables.

As shown in FIG. 5E, aperture 508 includes an inverter cable 528 and amicrophone cable 526, while aperture 514 contains a TransmissionMinimized Differential Signaling (TDMS) cable 524. The inverter cable528 powers the LCD flat panel display, while the TDMS provides datasignals to the flat panel display. The TDMS cable is made up of fourbundles of three wires each. Two wires within each bundle are twin-axial(e.g. helically twisted) signal wires, and the third wire is a drainwire. In one embodiment, the twin axial signal wires and drain wires areindividually insulated with aluminum-mylar. Additionally, a plurality(in one embodiment, three) additional Extended Display IdentificationData (EDID) wires may be included within TDMS cable 524 to provideadditional signals to the flat panel display.

In an alternate embodiment, a Low Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS)cable may be used. Low Voltage Differential Signaling is a low noise,low power, low amplitude method for high-speed (gigabits per second)data transmission over copper wire. LVDS differs from normalinput/output (I/O) in a few ways: Normal digital I/O works with 5 voltsas a high (binary 1) and 0 volts as a low (binary 0). When adifferential is used, a third option (−5 volts), is added, whichprovides an extra level with which to encode and results in a highermaximum data transfer rate. A higher data transfer rate means fewerwires are required, as in UW (Ultra Wide) and UW-2/3 SCSI hard disks,which use only 68 wires. These devices require a high transfer rate overshort distances. Using standard I/O transfer, SCSI hard drives wouldrequire a lot more than 68 wires. Low voltage means that the standard 5volts is replaced by either 3.3 volts or 1.5 volts.

LVDS uses a dual wire system, running 180 degrees of each other. Thisenables noise to travel at the same level, which in turn can getfiltered more easily and effectively. With standard I/O signaling, datastorage is contingent upon the actual voltage level. Voltage level canbe affected by wire length (longer wires increase resistance, whichlowers voltage). But with LVDS, data storage is distinguished only bypositive and negative voltage values, not the voltage level. Therefore,data can travel over greater lengths of wire while maintaining a clearand consistent data stream.

Referring now to FIG. 6, there is shown an exploded perspective view ofa moveable assembly 600 and actuator assembly 602, according to oneembodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, tension cable690 terminates at the actuator assembly end in a ball ferrule 634.Socket assembly 627 may be equipped with a wave spring (e.g. resilientmember), plungers, and friction inserts, such that plungers supportablyengaging friction limit ball 626 raise ball 626 from and lower ball 626to a friction insert when the wave spring (e.g. resilient member) iseither expanded or compressed. In one embodiment, moveable assembly 600may have first friction area provided by a sequential series of socketassemblies 627 and a second friction area provided by a sequentialseries of friction limit sockets 625, which are not equipped withfriction inserts, plungers, or wave springs. Instead, friction limitsockets 625 may be cast or machined out of a single material such asaluminum or stainless steel.

From an engineering point of view, the bottom third of moveable assemblyexperiences the highest stressing forces, and thus higher frictionsurfaces are needed to fix ball 626 in position, than are needed to fixball 626A in position. In other embodiments, moveable assembly may beconstructed using only friction limit sockets 625, or using only socketassemblies 627. Alternatively, one or more friction limit sockets 625may be interspersed between two or more socket assemblies 627. Inanother embodiment, the concave interior contact surfaces of frictionlimit sockets 625 may be brazed with tungsten carbide to provide animproved friction surface.

Referring again to FIG. 6, an anti-torsion cable 639 may be provided tolimit how much moveable assembly 600 may be twisted. Other components ofmoveable assembly 600 may include a base termination socket 637, a basetermination ball 633, a tension cable ferrule 635, a strain relief 638for the data cables, and ferrules 636 for the anti-torsion cable. In oneembodiment, strain relief 638 is made of rubber or plastic.

Referring now to FIG. 7A there is shown another embodiment of anactuator assembly 702. In this embodiment, an actuator assembly 702 isshown in a first tensioning position. In one embodiment, actuatorassembly includes a tongue 705, a crank 703, a strut 709, a spring shaft708, and a spring assembly 711. Tongue 705 may be coupled to tensioncable ferrule 734 at one end, and coupled via a shaft 713 to a crank703. Proximal end 703A of crank 703 may be angled upwards and coupledwith strut 709, which angles downwards to couple with spring shaft 708via pivot pin 736. Though not shown, a handle may be coupled with crank703 to form an angle 752 with the horizontal.

In this first tensioning position, the distance 753 between a frontsurface of actuator assembly 702 and a center of ferrule 734 may measureapproximately 14.26 mm. A distance 751 measured from the center of shaft713 to the center of pivot pin 736 may measure approximately 59.75 mm.In one embodiment, the angle 752 at which crank 703 is angled upwardfrom the horizontal may measure approximately 20.4 degrees.

Referring to FIG. 7B, there is shown a cross-sectional view of anactuator assembly 702 in a second relaxed position, according to oneembodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, a handle (not shown)coupled with crank 703 has been depressed to flatten crank 703 and strut709 while raising the distal end of tongue 705 to relax the tensionedcable. As a result of this flattening, spring 711 (FIG. 7A) has beencompressed a distance 755, which may measure approximately 15.25 mm inone embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, the length 756 ofspring assembly 711 (FIG. 7A) may measure approximately 43.18 mm, andthe distance 754 separating shaft 713 from pivot pin 736 may measureapproximately 69.11 mm. Additionally, the distance 757 separating thecenter of ball ferrule 734 from a front surface of actuator assembly 702may increase to approximately 21.70 mm.

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of an actuatorassembly 802. Actuator housing 807 may be made of any suitable durablematerial (e.g. metal, plastic, etc.) known in the manufacturing andcomputer arts. In one embodiment, housing 807 may be machined from asingle block of aluminum or stainless steel, or cast from a liquid metalor liquid plastic injected or poured into a mold. It will be appreciatedthat the exterior and interior contours and protrusions or intrusions ofhousing 807 may be of any size, shape, or dimension necessary to fit aparticular desired application.

For example, as shown in FIG. 8, a proximal end of housing 807 isblocked, with rounded edges and corners, while a proximal end is roundedand drilled to contain three screw holes 890. Additionally, a lip 891may be formed on the proximal end and bored to allow housing 807 to bebolted to a chassis of a FPDD. In one embodiment, housing 807 isenclosed on three sides with the fourth side left open to allowinsertion of various components and sub-assemblies. The sides andblocked end of housing 807 may contain one or more circular orrectangular orifices through which various components (e.g. spring shaftcap 808, shaft 816, shaft 814, and shaft 813) may be inserted toassemble actuator assembly 802. In one embodiment, spring shaft cap 808covers the end of spring assembly 811, and may be formed of a plastic ormetal using the injection molding or machining processes describedabove.

Similarly, shafts 813, 814, and 816 may be formed of a metal such asstainless steel. The ends of shafts 813, 814, and 816 may be threaded toreceive a nut, or equipped with an annular groove to receive a pressurefitted washer (e.g. retaining rings 817 and 821). Thrust washer 818 maybe inserted within housing 807, at the blocked end, to provide a supportsurface for die spring 811. Spring shaft 806 may be coupled with diespring 811, and may be formed of a plastic or metal (e.g. stainlesssteel) using injection molding or machining processes well-known in theart.

As shown in FIG. 8, rounded and narrowed proximal end 806A of springshaft 806 may contain an orifice of sufficient size and diameter toreceive shaft 813. The outer dimensions of proximal end 806A may suchthat the proximal end 806A slidably fits between a first pair of arms ofH-shaped strut 809. In one embodiment, the first pair of strut armscontain circular orifices corresponding in dimension and placement tocircular orifices in proximal end 806A and housing 807, such that shaft813 may be slid through the aligned orifices to operatively link springshaft 806 with strut 809. Similarly, the other end of strut 809 maycontain a second pair of strut arms that slidably straddle a nubbedportion 803A of crank 803, such that shaft 814, passing through alignedcircular orifices in the second pair of strut arms and in housing base807, operatively couple shaft 809 with crank 803.

Crank 803 may be formed of plastic or metal (e.g. stainless steel) usinginjection molding or machining processes well known in the art. It willbe appreciated that crank 803, like the other components of actuatorassembly 802, is not limited to a particular size, weight,configuration, appearance, or shape. Rather, crank 803 may have anysize, shape, appearance, or configuration necessary to fit a particularapplication. At one end, crank 803 is extruded and narrowed to formnubbed portion 803A, through which a circular orifice is formed. In oneembodiment, a horizontally disposed flat planar surface forming the topof nubbed portion 803A may cascade down into an open portion between twoparallel crank arms, each of which contains an orifice to receive shaft817.

Formed of a metal (e.g. stainless steel), tongue 805 is an oblong pieceof metal, thick in its central portion and tapering to substantiallyflat ends. Each end may contain a circular orifice extending through itsthickness. Similarly, a circular orifice may be bored through thetongue's central portion from one side to the other. The edges oforifice may be recessed such that nylon washers 805A may be insertedinto the orifice flush with the outer portions of tongue 805. Tongue 805may be slidably inserted between the arms of crank 803 such that shaft817 may be inserted through the orifices in housing 807, the crank arms,and the tongue's central portion, to operatively couple tongue 805 withcrank 803. A set screw 819 may be provided to adjust the tilt of tongue805. Additionally, termination socket 824, equipped with insert 823, maybe used to couple termination ball 822 with the proximal end of housing807. In another embodiment, a flat base portion of display terminationball 822 that contains screw holes corresponding in number, dimension,and placement to the screw holes in the proximal end of housing 807 maybe bolted directly to housing base 807.

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a housing base 907,which corresponds to housing base 807.

Referring now to FIG. 9B, there is shown a side view of the housing base907 shown in FIG. 9A. The height 951 of housing base 907 may beapproximately 30.75 mm. The diameter of circular orifice 990 may measureapproximately 6.05 mm. The length 953 of rectangular orifice 991 maymeasure approximately 23.13 mm. A distance 952, measured from the centerof circular orifice 990 to a first edge of rectangular orifice 991, maymeasure approximately 23.13 mm. A distance 954 from the center ofcircular orifice 990 to the bottom edge of rectangular orifice 991 maymeasure approximately 10.07 mm. In one embodiment, the depth 955 ofrectangular orifice 991 is approximately 12.63 mm.

FIG. 9C is a bottom view of the actuator housing 907. In one embodiment,the distance 957 from a center of holes 992 to the center of holes 966measures approximately 142.06 mm. Distance 958, measured from the centerof holes 993 to the center of holes 966, is approximately 133.69 mm.Distance 959, measured from the center of holes 994 to the center ofholes 996, is approximately 42.05 mm. The center-to-center distance 960of holes 966 is approximately 20.30 mm. The center-to-center distance964 of holes 993 is approximately 23.11 mm. The center-to-centerdistance 956 of holes 992 is approximately 22.22 mm. Measurement 965 isapproximately 3.18 mm. The diameter 967 of hole 996 may measureapproximately 14.0 mm. Width 961 of housing 907 may measure 30.81 mm.

FIG. 9D is a sectional end view of housing 907 taken along line A—A inFIG. 9C. Measurement 962, in one embodiment, is approximately 18.77 mm.

FIG. 9E is a sectional end view of housing 902 taken along line B—B inFIG. 9C. In one embodiment, measurement 963 is approximately 20.40 mm.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of one embodiment of crank 1003, whichcorresponds to crank 803. Proximal end 1094 of crank 1003 may includearms 1098, which contain circular orifices 1091. In one embodiment,circular orifices 1091 correspond in size and placement to each other.At the distal end 1097, crank 1003 may include a nubbed portion 1096,which corresponds to nubbed portion 803A. Nubbed portion 1096 mayinclude a circular orifice 1092. Additionally, the top of distal end1097 may be flat, or equipped with sidewalls to form depression 1095. Inone embodiment, the each sidewall is equipped with screw holes 1093.

FIG. 10B is a top view of the crank 1003 shown in FIG. 10A illustratingplacement of holes 1093. In one embodiment, the diameter 1058 of holes1093 is approximately 3.0 mm.

FIG. 10C is a side view of the crank 1003 shown in FIG. 10A. Circularorifices 1091 and 1092 have a diameter 1059 of approximately 8.05 mm.The center-to-center distance 1051 of orifices 1091 and 1092 isapproximately 41.57 mm.

FIG. 10D is a bottom view of crank 1003. In one embodiment, the length1052 of crank 1003 is approximately 53.60 mm. At its widest point, thewidth 1055 of crank 1003 measures approximately 19.25 mm. Similarly,width 1053 measures approximately 16.80 mm, and width 1054 measuresapproximately 10.78 mm. Length 1057 measures approximately 20.00, anddistance 1056 measures approximately 7.98 mm.

FIG. 11A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a tongue 1105, whichcorresponds to tongue 805. Proximal end 1197 of tongue 1105 contain anconcave orifice 1195, while distal end 1196 may contain a bore 1191extending through the thickness of distal end 1196. Similarly, a bore1192 may extend from one side of the tongue's central portion to theother. Additionally, the top central portion of tongue 1105 may beridged to form convex channel 1194.

Referring now to FIG. 11B, there is shown a side view of tongue 1105. Inthis figure, tongue 1105 is shown upside down from the position shown inFIG. 11A. The length 1151 of tongue 1105 may measure approximately 44.69mm. The diameter 1198 of bore 1192 may measure approximately 8.5 mm. Theinterior surface of orifice 1195 may be curved at an angle ofapproximately 12.70 degrees. Distance 1152 may measure approximately11.08 mm. Distance 1154 may measure approximately 7.01 mm. Distance 1153may measure approximately 3.00 mm. The center-to-center distance betweenbore 1192 and orifice 1191 is approximately 15.82 mm.

Referring to FIG. 11C, which is a plan view one embodiment of tongue1105, distance 1156 is approximately 21.38 mm. The diameter of orifice1191 may measure approximately 6.00 mm. Additionally, within orifice1195, there may be disposed a substantially oval orifice 1199, the widthof which may measure approximately 6.92 mm.

FIG. 11D is an end view of one embodiment of tongue 1105. In this oneembodiment, distance 1157 measures approximately 17.88 mm, and width1158 measures approximately 13.95 mm.

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a spring shaft 1206,which corresponds to spring shaft 806. In this embodiment, spring shaft1206 has a nubbed portion 1298 at one end that flares to aperpendicularly disposed circular flange 1297A, which terminates in aplanar surface 1297B. An orifice 1292 may extend through nubbed portion1298. A flange 1291 may be disposed on an edge of nubbed portion 1298.Extending from the center of planar surface 1297B is a barrel 1294.Barrel 1294 is cylindrical and of a diameter smaller than the diameterof circular flange portion 1297A. Additionally, barrel 1294 may containevenly spaced rectangular orifices 1293. Barrel 1294 terminates in aplanar surface 1294B. Extending from the center of planar surface 1294Bis a second barrel 1295 of smaller diameter than the first, whichterminates in knobbed ferrule 1296.

FIG. 12B is a side view of one embodiment of the spring shaft 1206 shownin FIG. 12A. The distance 1257 from the center of orifice 1292 to theedge of planar surface 1297B is approximately 10.00 mm.

FIG. 12C is a cross-sectional side view of spring shaft 1206 taken alongthe line A—A in FIG. 12B. Distance 1254 measures approximately 7.12 mm.Distance 1255, measured from the center of orifice 1292 to the edge offerrule 1296, is approximately 46.99 mm. The diameter 1253 of thecircular flange portion 1297 measures approximately 19.00 mm. Similarly,the diameter of ferrule 1296 measures approximately 5.00 mm at itswidest point. The diameter of barrel 1294 may measure approximately 9.52mm.

FIG. 12D is an end view of spring shaft 1206. In this one embodiment,the thickness 1256 of flange 1291 may measure approximately 3.00 mm.

FIG. 13A is a perspective view of one embodiment of strut 1303, whichcorresponds to strut 803. In this one embodiment, strut 1303 isH-shaped. One pair of arms 1396 may curve downwards as shown, while asecond pair of arms 1395 may be straight. Arms 1396 may contain orifices1394 extending through each individual arm. Similar orifices 1393 mayextend through the each of arms 1395. In one embodiment, the outsideedges of orifices 1393 may be flared to produce annular rings 1397.Disposed between arms 1396 is a first channel 1391. Disposed betweenarms 1395 is a second channel 1392.

FIG. 13B is a plan view of strut 1303 shown in FIG. 13A. Length 1356 ofstrut 1303 may be approximately 36.59 mm. The width 1359 of strut 1303,as measured from the outer edges of annular rings 1397 may beapproximately 17.00 mm. The width 1358 of the second channel may measureapproximately 8.50 mm. The width 1357 of the first channel may measure9.58 mm.

FIG. 13C is a cross-sectional side view of strut 1303, taken along theline A—A in FIG. 13B. In one embodiment, the horizontal center-to-centerdistance 1351 between orifices 1394 and 1393 is approximately 27.54 mm.Distance 1352 measures approximately 7.63 mm. Distance 1353 measuresapproximately 8.03 mm. Additionally, the vertical center-to-centerdistance between orifices 1394 and 1393 is approximately 4.03 mm.

FIG. 13D is an end view of strut 1303. In one embodiment, the width 1360of strut 1303 measures approximately 17.43 mm.

FIG. 14A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a shaft 1416. Itwill be appreciated that shafts having various lengths and diameters maybe used with the present invention, and that the present invention isnot limited to the dimensions of one embodiment described herein. Shaft1416 is generally cylindrical, and may be either solid or hollow. Shaft1416 includes a barrel portion 1493, and an annular channel 1491disposed near one end of shaft 1416, and an annular channel 1492disposed near the opposite end of shaft 1416. In one embodiment, aretaining ring (not shown) fits within annular channel 1492 to secureshaft 1416 in position.

FIG. 14B is a side view of shaft 1416 showing the various measurementsthereof. In one embodiment, the length 1451 of barrel portion 1493,measured from the interior edges of annular channels 1491 and 1492, isapproximately 17.52 mm. Alternatively, length 1451 may measureapproximately 25.12 mm or approximately 24.92 mm. The outer diameter1452 of shaft 1416 may measure approximately 4.0 mm.

FIG. 15A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a displaytermination socket 1524. In this one embodiment, socket 1524 is ahollow, annular ring. A first annular lip 1592 may be disposed withinone end of socket 1524, and an annular lip 1591 may be disposed insidethe socket 1524 near the other end. Socket 1524 is used to couple adisplay termination ball (not shown) with the actuator assemblypreviously described.

FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional side view of socket 1524 taken along theline A—A in FIG. 15C, which is a top view of socket 1524. Distance 1551measures approximately 17.50 mm, and radius 1553 measures approximately19.00 mm. The interior diameter 1552 of socket 1524 may measureapproximately 34.50 mm.

FIG. 16 is a side view of one embodiment of a tension cable 1634.Tension cable 1634 includes a ball ferrule 1654 on one end. The otherend may be provided with a compression-fit ferrule (not shown) duringassembly of the moveable assembly, as previously described.Additionally, a plastic or nylon sleeve 1656 is centrally disposed aboutcable 1634. In one embodiment, the distance 1651, measured from thecenter of ball ferrule 1654 to a first end of sleeve 1656, isapproximately 398.90 mm. Approximately a 12.00 mm length 1655 of exposedcable 1634 may extend past the first end of nylon sleeve 1656. Adistance 1653, measured from a second end of nylon sleeve 1656 to thecenter of ball ferrule 1654, is approximately 12.00 mm. In oneembodiment, the diameter of ball ferrule 1654 may measure approximately11.18 mm.

FIG. 17A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a friction limitsocket 1725. Socket 1725 may be formed of a metal (e.g. stainless steelor aluminum), and may include a first portion 1793A, a second portion1793B, and an annular ring (or channel) 1791 disposed between the firstand second portions. Friction limit socket 1725 is static, meaning thatfirst portion 1793A and second portion 1793B are not moveable. A concavesurface 1792A may be formed within first portion 1793A to receive afriction limit ball (not shown). In one embodiment, friction limitsocket 1725, including concave surfaces 1792A and 1792B (FIG. 17C), isformed of a single piece of stainless steel. In another embodiment,concave surfaces 1792A and 1792B separate pieces, which may be threadedtogether at their base portions to form socket 1725. In one embodiment,as previously described, concave surfaces 1792A and 1792B may be coatedwith a high friction material such as tungsten-carbide or aluminumoxide. Alternatively, concave surfaces 1792A and 1792B may be leftuncoated.

FIG. 17B is a plan view of friction limit socket 1725.

FIG. 17C is a cross-sectional side view of socket 1725 taken along theline A—A in FIG. 17B and showing interior concave surfaces 1792A and1792B. Distance 1753 measures approximately 36.00 mm. Distance 1754measures approximately 21.50 mm. A first radius 1752 measuresapproximately 20.00 mm, while a second radius 1751 measuresapproximately 19.10 mm to form an annular lip about the outer edges ofportions 1793A and 1793B.

FIG. 18A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a friction limitball 1826. Friction limit ball 1826 includes a cosmetic middle portion1891; a first annular friction ring 1892A disposed on a first end offriction limit ball 1826; a second annular friction ring 1892B disposedon a second end of friction limit ball 1826; and a cable guide insert1893 centrally located within a bore 1896 running through friction limitball 1826 from one side to the other. Friction limit ball is formed of ametal (e.g. stainless steel or aluminum). In one embodiment, annularfriction rings 1892A and 1892B are manufactured independently offriction limit ball 1826 and are adhered to friction limit ball 1826using adhesives well-known in the art. In another embodiment, annularfriction rings 1892A and 1892B, cable guide insert 1893, and frictionlimit ball 1826 are machined from a single block of aluminum.

Referring to FIGS. 17A and 18A, in a further embodiment, annularfriction rings 1892A and 1892B are coated with a high friction materialsuch as tungsten-carbide to provide a high friction surface aspreviously described. Alternatively, annular friction rings 1892A and1892B may be left uncoated. The annular friction rings not only contactconcave surfaces 1792A and 1792B when moveable assembly 200 istensioned, but also serve to limit the friction limit ball's 1826 axisof rotation when moveable assembly 200 is relaxed. For example, frictionlimit ball 1826 may be tilted within socket 1725 until one of thefriction limit rings contacts the inner lip of portion 1793A or 1793B.In embodiment, the axis of rotation is approximately in the range ofapproximately 10.0 to approximately 25.0 degrees. In other embodiments,the axis of rotation may be greater or lesser than the rangeillustratively given above.

FIG. 18B is a plan view of friction limit ball 1826. Cable guide insert1893 may include four perpendicular cross members. Two holes 1895A and1895B may be centrally disposed in two of the cross members, with thecenter of each hole located a distance 1861 or 1862, respectively, fromthe center of friction limit ball 1826. In one embodiment, holes 1895Aand 1895B house an anti-torsion cable. Additionally, a central tensioncable bore 1894 may be formed in the center of cable guide insert 1893to house a tension cable. In one embodiment, distances 1861 and 1862each measure approximately 8.00 mm.

FIG. 18C is a cross-sectional side view of a friction limit ball 1826taken along the line A—A in FIG. 18B. In one embodiment, the thickness1851 of friction limit ball is approximately 30.00 mm. The outerdiameter 1854 of friction limit ball 1826 may be approximately 38.00 mm.Distances 1855 and 1856, measured from a vertical line extending thoughthe center of friction limit ball 1826 to the edge of annular frictionrings 1892A and 1892B, each measure approximately 11.03 mm. The radius1857 is equivalent to the radius 1858 and measures approximately 35.5degrees. The diameter 1852 of a first bore is approximately 23.00 mm.The diameter 1853 of a tension cable bore is approximately 6.80 mm.

FIG. 19A is a perspective view of one embodiment of an abrasive socketassembly 1927. A first plunger 1928A slidably fits around first frictioninsert 1930, which is coupled with a second friction insert 1931, whichslidably fits within a second plunger 1928B. The plungers and frictioninserts may be made of a metal (e.g. stainless steel or aluminum). Wavespring 1932 is disposed between the first and second plungers to spacethe plungers apart when moveable assembly 200 is relaxed. When thrustapart by wave spring (resilient member) 1932, plungers 1928A and 1928Blift friction limit balls 1826 out of contact with friction inserts 1930and 1931, thus allowing friction limit balls 1826 to rotate freelywithin plungers 1928A and 1928B. In one embodiment, base portions offriction inserts 1930 and 1931 are threaded such that the frictioninserts may be screwed together to assemble abrasive socket assembly1927. Additionally, the concave inner surfaces of friction inserts 1930and 1931 may be coated with an abrasive material such as tungstencarbide, aluminum oxide, or other abrasive material, as previouslydescribed, to provide a high friction support surface.

With reference back to FIG. 2A, in a further embodiment, abrasive socketassemblies 1927 are used in the bottom one-half to one-third portion ofmoveable assembly 200, while friction limit sockets 1725 are used in theupper one-half to two-thirds of moveable assembly 200. In this manner,moveable assembly 200 is equipped with at least two zones of friction: ahigh friction zone located near the base of moveable assembly 200, wherethe most torque occurs; and a low friction zone located towards thedisplay end of moveable assembly 200. Alternatively, abrasive socketassemblies 1927 and friction limit sockets 1725 may be alternatedthroughout the length of moveable assembly 200.

FIG. 19B is a perspective view of a first friction insert 1930 having aconcave interior surface designed to mate with an annular friction ringof a friction limit ball. Base portion 1992 may be threaded to mate witha base portion of a corresponding second friction insert.

FIG. 19C is a cross-sectional side view of the friction insert 1930 ofFIG. 19B. Distance 1952 measures approximately 15.25 mm, and distance1953 measures approximately 5.00 mm. In one embodiment, the outerdiameter 1955 of the base portion measures approximately 30.25 mm, andthe outer diameter of first friction insert 1930 measures approximately35.50 mm. Additionally, the interior 1954 of the base portion of firstfriction insert 1930 may be internally threaded. Second friction insert1931 (not shown) has corresponding measurements, except that the baseportion of second friction insert 1931 may be externally threaded.

FIG. 19D is a top view of first friction insert 1930, showing orifice1991 bored through the base portion of first friction insert 1930 toallow passage therethough of data, torsion, tension, power, and othercomputer system-related cables.

FIG. 19E is a side view of first friction insert 1930, showing baseportion 1992.

FIG. 19F is a bottom view of first friction insert 1930.

FIG. 19G is a perspective view of a second friction insert 1931, showinga second, externally-threaded base portion 1993.

FIG. 19H is a cross-sectional side view of second friction insert 1931taken along the line A—A in FIG. 19K. Distance 1961 measuresapproximately 15.25 mm. Distance 1963 measures approximately 5.00 mm.Outer diameter 1964 of the base portion measures approximately 30.25 mm,and outer diameter 1965 of second friction insert 1931 measuresapproximately 35.50 mm. The exterior 1966 of the base portion may bethreaded such that the base portions of second friction insert 1931 andfirst friction insert 1930 screw into each other.

FIG. 19I is a plan view of second friction insert 1931 showing anorifice 1994 bored through the base portion of the insert to allow forthe passage therethrough of data, power, anti-torsion, tension, power,and other computer system-related cables.

FIG. 19J is a side view of the second friction insert 1931 showing baseportion 1993.

FIG. 19K is a bottom view of second friction insert 1931.

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional side view of an assembled abrasive socketassembly 2027, which corresponds to abrasive socket assembly 1927,according to one embodiment of the invention. In this figure, plunger2093 corresponds to plunger 1928A and plunger 2094 corresponds toplunger 1928B. In this one embodiment, plunger 2093 has been fashionedto slidably fit around plunger 2094 so as to present a more desirableaesthetic external appearance. Plungers 2093 and 2094 may be made ofplastic or a metal (e.g. aluminum or stainless steel), and colored asdesired. Annular wave spring 2032, corresponding to wave spring (e.g.resilient member) 1932, is disposed between plungers 2093 and 2094 tospace plungers 2093 and 2094 apart when moveable assembly 200 isrelaxed. Friction insert 2030, corresponding to friction insert 1930, isscrewed into friction insert 2031, which corresponds to friction insert1931, at thread interface 2092. In one embodiment, the friction insertsmay be glued together at glue area 2091 using adhesives well-known inthe art.

FIG. 21A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a base terminationball 2133. Base termination ball 2133 is similar to friction limit ball1826, except that one end of base termination ball 2133 includes aflattened base portion 2192 to couple moveable assembly to a moveablebase structure. An annular friction ring 2191, such as those previouslydescribed, is formed or attached at one end of base termination ball2133. Flattened base portion 2192 may be coupled with a moveable basestructure using screw holes 2197, 2195C, 2195A, and 2195B. Additionally,flattened base portion 2192 may include a central tension cable guideorifice 2194, a pair of anti-torsion cable orifices 2193, and aplurality of cable guide orifices 2196. Like friction limit balls 1826,base termination ball 2133 may be made of metal (e.g. stainless steel oraluminum).

FIG. 21B is a bottom view of base termination ball 2133. The horizontalcenter-to-center distance 2151 between orifice 2195C and 2195B isapproximately 24.00 mm. Orifice 2195B is located a distance 2152 ofapproximately 12.00 mm from a vertical line running through the centerof tension cable guide orifice 2194, and located a distance 2154 ofapproximately 7.50 mm from a horizontal line running through the centerof tension cable guide orifice 2194. The vertical center-to-centerdistance 2155 between orifice 2195B and 2195A is approximately 15.00 mm.In one embodiment, distance 2156 measures approximately 14.50 mm.

FIG. 21C is a cross-sectional side view of base termination ball 2133taken along the line A—A in FIG. 21B. Outer diameter 2157 of theflattened base portion measures approximately 34.45 mm. Distance 2158measures approximately 13.50 mm. Arc 2159 measures approximately 36.0degrees. Distance 2162 measures approximately 23.00 mm. The diameter2161 of the tension cable guide orifice measures approximately 6.80 mm.Distance 2160 measures approximately 11.17 mm. The outer diameter 2164of base termination ball 2133 measures approximately 38.00 mm.

It will be appreciated that aspects of the present invention may be usedwith a variety of moveable assemblies which allow for selectablepositioning of a flat panel display device (FPDD). FIGS. 22A, 22B, and22C show examples of such moveable assemblies which incorporate aspectsof the present invention. Examples of these aspects include a basecomputer system which is moveable by a person and is not physicallyattached to a surface (except through the weight of the system due togravity), or the use of a single actuator on the back of the FPDD inorder to control the repositioning of the FPDD without requiring theactuation or loosening of multiple locks for the various joints, or adata cable which is housed within the structure of the moveableassembly.

FIG. 22A shows an example of a moveable assembly 2202 which is coupledto an FPDD 2203 at one end of the moveable assembly and is coupled to abase computer system 2201 at another end of the moveable assembly 2202.The base computer system 2201 is similar to the base computer system242A. It includes many of the typical components of a computer systemand has been designed in both size and weight to adequately and stablysupport the FPDD at a variety of different positions. For example, thebase computer system 2201 is designed with sufficient weight such that,without physically attaching the base computer system 2201 (exceptthrough gravity) to the surface 2204, the base computer system 2201 willallow the FPDD 2203 to be extended out beyond the edge of the computersystem 2201 as shown in FIG. 22A without causing the whole system tooverturn. Thus the entire system 2200 allows the FPDD 2203 to bepositioned at any one of a multitude of locations in which the FPDD 2203can be positioned given the extent of reach provided by the moveableassembly 2202.

The moveable assembly 2202 includes a post (e.g. arm member) 2205, apost 2206, and a post 2207 which are coupled to each other throughjoints 2210 and 2209 as shown in FIG. 22A. The post 2205 is coupled tothe base computer system 2201 through the rotatable joint 2208 whichallows the post 2205 to rotate as shown by arrow 2216 around the joint2208. The joint 2209 allows post 2206 to rotate relative to post 2205,allowing an angular displacement along the arrow 2214 as shown in FIG.22A. Similarly, the angle between post 2206 and 2207 may be varied asthese two posts are moved through the joint 2210, allowing motion alongthe arrow 2215. Both joints 2209 and 2210 include locking mechanisms2212 and 2213 respectively, allowing the relative angular positionbetween the corresponding posts to be fixed.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 22A, articulation of both jointssimultaneously will require loosening of both joints in order to allowcomplete control of the movement of the FPDD. In an alternativeembodiment of the system shown in FIG. 22A, a single locking actuationcontrol may be disposed on the surface of the FPDD 2203 in a mannerwhich is similar to the handle 241 described above. In one embodiment,this single actuation control may be an electromagnetic control whichloosens or tightens the joints electromagnetically under the control ofthe single actuation switch disposed on the FPDD 2203. The post 2207terminates in a gimbal joint 2211 which is coupled to the FPDD to allowmovement of the FPDD relative to the post 2207. Within the interiorportions of the posts 2205, 2206 and 2207, there are disposed data andpower cables 2220 and 2221. In one embodiment, these cables areconcealed within the interior of the posts, which represent another formof a moveable assembly for supporting an FPDD. It will be appreciatedthat other computer system-related cables may be housed within theinterior portions of posts 2205, 2206, and 2207.

FIG. 22B shows another example of a moveable assembly 2233 in a system2233 which includes a base computer system 2232 and an FPDD 2248. Theentire system 2233 rests, through gravity, on the surface 2239 withoutbeing physically attached to the surface except through gravity. Asnoted above, the bottom of the computer system 2232 may include anon-slip surface, such as rubber feet. Given that the weight and size ofthe base computer system 2232 is designed according to the teachings ofthe present invention to allow the support of the FPDD 2248 in a varietyof selectable positions of the FPDD 2248, there is no need for the basecomputer system 2232 to be physically attached to the surface 2239through the use of clamps or glues or bolts or screws, etc.

In one embodiment of the example shown in FIG. 22B, the computer system2232 has a weight and size which allows a single human user to be ableto move the computer system without assistance from another person orfrom a mechanical assistance. The base computer system 2232 is attachedto post 2235 through a rotatable joint 2238, which allows the post 2235to rotate around the base computer system along the arrow 2243. Post2236 is coupled to post 2235 through the joint 2239, which will belocked through the locking mechanism 2240. The joint 2239 allows theangle between post 2235 and 2236 to be varied by moving the post 2236along the arrow 2241. One end of the post 2236 supports a counterweight2237 and another end of the post terminates in a gimbal joint 2244 whichis attached to the back of the FPDD 2248. Posts 2235 and 2236, in theembodiment shown in FIG. 22B, include power and data cables 2270 and2249, respectively, which are disposed within these posts and therebyconcealed by these posts. A single actuating device or switch 2250 mayoptionally be located on the FPDD 2248 to allow for the release of oneor more lockable joints in order to allow the selectable positioning orrepositioning of the FPDD.

FIG. 22C shows another example of a moveable assembly 2264 in a system2260 which includes the moveable assembly as well as an FPDD 2263 and abase computer system 2261 which rests on a surface 2262, which may be adesk surface. As noted above, the base computer system 2261 is typicallydesigned to have a weight and size such that it will support theselectable positioning and repositioning of the FPDD 2263 over a largerange of movement of the FPDD 2263. The moveable assembly 2264 includesthree posts, 2267, 2268 and 2269, and also includes three joints 2271,2272 and 2273, and also includes two counterweights 2277 and 2278. Themoveable assembly 2264 also includes a gimbal joint 2274 which couplesthe post 2269 to the FPDD 2263. An optional single actuator control 2280may be disposed on the FPDD 2263 in order to unlock or lock one or moreof the joints. The embodiment shown in FIG. 22C may also optionallyinclude the use of power and data cables, which are disposed within theposts 2267, 2268, and 2269.

In FIG. 23A, the computer controlled display system 2300 includes: aflat panel display device 2301 having a display surface 2302 and aninput 2303 for receiving display data to be displayed on the displaysurface 2302. A moveable assembly 2304 is mechanically coupled to theflat panel display 2301. The moveable assembly 2304 has across-sectional area, which is substantially less than an area of thedisplay surface 2302. Moveable assembly 2304 is moveable when handle2307 is depressed, to allow the flat panel display device 2301 to beselectively positioned in space relative to a user of the computercontrolled display system 2300. A base (e.g. moveable enclosure) 2305 iscoupled mechanically to the moveable assembly 2304 and to the flat paneldisplay device 2301 through the moveable assembly 2304. In oneembodiment, the base houses concealed computer components, whichinclude, but are not limited to: a microprocessor, a memory, a bus, anI/O (input/output) controller, optical drive, network interface, and I/Oport. In such an embodiment, the microprocessor is coupled to the inputof the flat panel display 2301. In a preferred embodiment, thecross-sectional area is defined by a cross-section taken perpendicularlyto a longitudinal dimension of the moveable assembly 2304.

In one embodiment, the moveable assembly 2304 is moveable such that theFPDD 2301 has at least three degrees of movement. In one embodiment, theoverall weight of the entire system is less than about 45.0 lbs and afootprint size of the base 2305 is less than an area of about 4.0 squarefeet.

In a further embodiment, an actuator 2306 is attached to the flat paneldisplay 2301 and coupled to a force generator (e.g. spring/pistonassembly) which maintains the moveable assembly 2304 in a rigid modewhen the actuator (handle) 2306 is in a first state, and which allowsthe moveable assembly 2304 to be moveable when the actuator (handle)2306 is in a second state. In a preferred embodiment, the actuator 2306,through a single actuation, allows simultaneous positioning of the flatpanel display 2301 and moveable assembly 2304 in multiple degrees offreedom.

In one embodiment, a data cable (not shown) is coupled to the input ofthe flat panel display 2301 at a first end, and coupled to a displaycontroller (not shown) housed within the base 2305, the cable beingdisposed (and/or concealed) within the moveable assembly 2304. In afurther embodiment, an anti-torsion cable (not shown) is coupled to (andpreferably within) the moveable assembly 2304 to restrain the flat paneldisplay (and the moveable assembly 2304) from being rotated beyond apre-determined amount.

In a further embodiment, the longitudinal dimension of the moveableassembly 2304 extends from the flat panel display 2301 to the base 2305,and a weight of the system 2300 is less than about 25.0 lbs and afootprint size of the base 2305 is less than an area of about 500.0square centimeters.

In a further embodiment, the base 2305 is not fixedly secured to asupporting surface under the base 2305.

FIG. 23B is a perspective view of another embodiment of a computercontrolled display device including a FPDD 2301 coupled with a moveableassembly 2304, which is coupled with a base 2305. As shown, actuatorassembly 2306 is mounted on or contained within the rear housing 2308 ofFPDD 2301. In one embodiment, the internal structure of FPDD isstrengthened to withstand the compressive user forces appliedsimultaneously to handle 2306A and the front surface of FPDD 2301. Theexternal shape of base 2305, in one embodiment, forms a toroid, asshown, and includes an inner metal Faraday cage, concealed by a layer ofplastic, which repels external Electromagnetic Frequencies (EMF) thatmay interfere with operation of the computer components concealed withinthe base 2305. The Faraday cage also contains internal EMF generated bythe concealed computer components. In one embodiment, the concealedmetal Faraday cage, like the outer plastic layer, is manufactured in twopieces, a top portion and a bottom portion, which when fitted togetherform a toroid. The Faraday cage may be made of zinc, zinc alloys, orother suitable metals known in the art.

In one embodiment, the base 2305 and its internal components weighsapproximately 13.0 pounds, while the FPDD 2301 weighs approximately 4.5pounds. Additionally, the moveable assembly 2304, base 2305, and FPDD2301 are manufactured such that a user can safely lift computer system2300 using moveable assembly 2304 as a carrying handle. Additionally,the system is manufactured such that a user can safely hoist the entiresystem simply by grasping the FPDD 2301 and lifting. The terms “safelylift” and “safely hoist” mean that the various system components sufferminimal or no external or internal damage as a result of the user'slifting actions.

As shown in FIG. 23B, the exterior plastic housing of base 2305 may beformed of two parts, a top portion and a bottom portion 2305A, which,when fitted together, form a toroid. The bottom portion 2305A maycontain a plurality of peripheral ports and/or computer system-relatedcontrols 2310. Such ports and controls illustratively include, but arenot limited to one or more of: a Firewire port, an Ethernet port, amodem jack, a power button, a reset button, a USB port, an infraredport, and similar computer system-related ports and controls.

FIG. 23C is a side view of the computer system 2300 shown in FIGS. 23Aand 23B, according to one embodiment of the invention. System 2300includes a FPDD 2301 having an actuator assembly 2306 attached thereto;a moveable assembly 2304 attached to the actuator assembly 2306, and abase 2305 attached to the moveable assembly 2304. In this embodiment,moveable assembly 2304 is a snake-like ball-and-socket assembly;however, it will be appreciated that other types of assemblies may alsobe used. Additionally, an optical drive (e.g. CD and/or DVD) aperture2312 is provided in the top portion of base 2305. Aperture 2312, in oneembodiment, includes an electronically activated fold-down door and anelectronically activated slide-out optical disk tray. In one embodiment,pressing a button on a keyboard coupled with base 2305 activates thefold-down door and slide-out tray.

FIG. 23D is a rear-view of the computer system 2300 shown in FIGS.23A–23C, according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, system2300 includes FPDD 2301, actuator assembly 2306, moveable assembly 2304,and base 2305, which includes a plurality of peripheral ports andcomputer system-related controls 2310, as described above.

FIG. 23E is a front view of the computer system 2300 of FIGS. 23A–23D,according to one embodiment of the invention, and showing FPDD 2301,viewing surface 2302, and base 2305.

FIG. 23F is another side view of the computer system 2300 of FIGS.23A–23E, according to one embodiment of the invention, and showing FPDD2301, actuator assembly 2306, moveable assembly 2304, and base 2305.

Referring now to FIG. 23G, a moveable assembly 2302 similar to thatpreviously described with reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B is shown coupledwith a flat panel display 2310, which, in one embodiment, includes ahousing 2301 attached to a portion of the flat panel display obversefrom a viewing portion 2311 of the flat panel display 2310. Housing 2301is coupled to moveable assembly 2302 using at least one screw 2331 or aplurality of screws 2331. Within housing 2301 are various components ofactuator assembly 2300A. Illustratively, such components include atongue 2305, a crank 2303, a strut 2309, a spring guide 2308, and aspring 2370. Tongue 2305 has a distal end 2306B coupled with a ballferrule 2335, which is attached to a tension cable 2334 extendingthrough an interior portion of moveable assembly 2302. A proximal end2306A of tongue 2305 is coupled with a distal end 2303B of crank 2303.The proximal end 2303A of crank 2303 is operatively coupled with thedistal end of a strut 2309, and a proximal end of strut of 2309 iscoupled with a distal end 2308B of spring guide 2308, which is insertedwithin the interior of a spring 2370. In one embodiment, spring guide2308 progressively narrows or tapers downwards from the distal end 2308Bto its proximal end 2308A, which includes a bushing 2350, which helpsreduce friction and wear as proximal end 2308A slides within channel2307. In one embodiment, tongue 2305 may include at its proximal end2306A a channel extending therethrough into which a set screw or otherscrewlike mechanism 2305A is placed. Set screw 2305A may be adjusted tovary the angle at which the distal end of tongue 2305 contacts the ballferrule of tension cable 2334.

In one embodiment, a handle 2360 having a distal end 2360B and aproximal end 2360A may be operatively coupled with the actuator assembly2300. In one embodiment, distal end 2360B of handle 2360 is coupled witha top portion of crank 2303 using a set screw 2332. In one embodiment,proximal end 2360B is fashioned into an ergonomic design.

Referring again to FIGS. 4A and 23G, it will be appreciated that theactuator assembly 2300 shown in FIG. 23G differs from the actuatorassembly 400, shown in FIG. 4A. In FIG. 4A the distal end of handle 460was coupled with ball ferrule 434 attached to tension cable 490, whereasin FIG. 23G, the distal end 2360B of handle 2360 is coupled crank 2303,which is operatively coupled with tongue 2305. Tongue 2305, in turn, iscoupled with the ball ferrule 2335 attached to tension cable 2334.

Comparing FIGS. 4A and 23G, it will be appreciated that the angle atwhich tongue 2305 contacts ball ferrule 2335 is greater than the angleat which distal end of handle 460 contacts ball ferrule 434. In FIG.23G, the changed tongue angle provides the tensioning mechanism (e.g.actuator assembly 2300A), with increased mechanical advantage as thecable 2334 becomes tighter, which reduces the amount of user forcerequired to relax moveable assembly 2302. In one embodiment, an anglemeasured between a first horizontal line drawn through the center ofpivot 2370 and a second oblique line extending from the center of pivot2370, centrally through the distal end 2306B of tongue 2305, measures inthe range of approximately 40.0 degrees to approximately 85.0 degrees,preferably approximately 70.0 degrees.

FIG. 24A is a perspective view of a tongue 2400, which corresponds totongue 2305 in FIG. 23G. In FIG. 24A tongue 2400 includes a distal end2497 and a proximal end 2496. A cylindrical bore 2492 extends throughthe middle portion of tongue 2400 in one embodiment. In one embodiment,the distal end 2497 of tongue 2400 includes a bore (or cavity) 2495extending from a top surface of tongue 2400 downward towards a bottomsurface of tongue 2400. Similarly, at proximal end 2496 of tongue 2400there is included a cylindrical bore 2491 extending from a top surfaceof tongue 2400 to a bottom surface of tongue 2400. These features arebetter shown with reference to FIG. 24B, which is a cross-sectional sideview of tongue 2400 shown in FIG. 24A.

In FIG. 24B tongue 2400 has an overall length 2451 of approximately41.47 mm. A distance 2452, as measured from the center point of bore2491 to a center point of horizontal bore 2492 measures approximately15.83 mm. A center-to-center distance 2454 from bore 2492 to bore 2495measures approximately 13.64 mm. A distance 2453 from a bottom surfaceof distal end 2497 to a horizontal line 2499 extending through themidpoint of bore 2492 measures approximately 14.63 mm. In oneembodiment, the radius 2455 of bore 2492 measures in the range ofapproximately 11.100 mm to approximately 11.125 mm. Similarly, aninterior beveled portion of cavity 2495 has a radius of approximately11.40 mm plus or minus 0.25 mm.

With reference to FIG. 24D, which is an end view of tongue 2400. It willbe appreciated that tongue 2400 in one embodiment, has a depth (orheight) 2459 of approximately 22.63 mm as measured from a top surface2400A to a bottom surface 2400B of tongue 2400. FIG. 24C shows a topview of tongue 2400 according to one embodiment of the invention. InFIG. 24C tongue 2400 has a width 2456 of approximately 11.15 mm minus0.15 mm. Width of 2456 is measured from a first side 2492A to a secondside 2492B of bore 2492 extending through a mid portion of tongue 2400.In one embodiment, a bottom portion of cavity 2495 is substantiallyelliptical in shape and has a width 2457 of approximately 6.97 mm. Awidth 2458 of distal end 2497 as measured from a first side 2497A to asecond side 2497B measures in one embodiment, approximately 13.50 mm.

Referring now to FIG. 25A there is shown a perspective view of a glidering 2500, which in one embodiment is inserted within a friction socketplunger to preserve the cosmetic finish of the balls. As shown in FIG.25A, glide ring 2500 is substantially spherical in shape having a baseportion 2505 which in one embodiment is an annular ring attached to abottom surface of glide ring 2500. In one embodiment, glide ring 2500has a first diameter 2501 which is larger than a second diameter 2502,wherein the interior and exterior surfaces of glide ring 2500 curvinglytaper from the first diameter 2501 toward the second diameter 2502. Inone embodiment, the upper sidewall portions of glide ring 2500 mayinclude a plurality of slots 2503 extending downward from a top surfaceof glide ring 2500 towards the second diameter 2502. In one embodiment,a plurality of pegged feet 2504, may be attached to the outer bottomportion of glide ring 2500. These pegged feet 2504 may be used to holdglide ring securely within an abrasive socket plunger (not shown) byinserting one or more of feet 2504 within a corresponding plurality ofholes positioned within an abrasive socket plunger (not shown).

FIG. 25B is a bottom view of glide ring 2500, shown in FIG. 25A. In oneembodiment, an angle as measured from a line 2509 extending from acenter point of glide ring 2500 through a pegged foot 2504 to a secondline 2510 extending through the midpoint of glide ring 2500 through thecenter of a slot 2503A measures approximately 30.0 degrees.

FIG. 25C is a side view of glide ring 2500, shown in FIG. 25A, furtherillustrating placement of slots 2503 and pegged feet 2504.

FIG. 25D is a top view of glide ring 2500.

FIG. 25E is a cross-sectional side view glide ring 2500 taken along theline A—A in FIG. 25D. In FIG. 25E a focal point 2557 is centered adistance 2556 of approximately 17.875 mm above the base of glide ring2500 as measured from a vertical line 2556A extending through focalpoint 2557 to a second parallel line 2556B. In FIG. 25E, a line 2555B,perpendicular to line 2556A extends from focal point 2557 through thecenter portion of glide ring 2500.

Angle 2555, as measured between lines 2555A and 2555B, measures, in oneembodiment, approximately 63.70 degrees. The outer radius 2551 of theouter wall of glide ring 2500 measures approximately 41.500 mm minus0.025 mm, while the inner wall 2552 has a radius measuring approximately40.000 mm minus 0.025 mm. In one embodiment, the inner diameter 2553 ofbase portion of glide ring 2500 measures approximately 21.50 mm whilethe outer diameter 2554 measures approximately 23.00 mm minus 0.025 mm.

Glide ring 2500 may be made of various materials, including but notlimited to: plastics, polymers, metals, glass, and fiberglass.Preferably, glide ring 2500 is made of Ryton®, having a nominal wallthickness of approximately 3.0 mm. In one embodiment, the materialcomprising glide ring 2500 may include an abrasive material or alubricating material. For example, fiberglass strands may beincorporated within a glide ring formed of plastic, to increase thefrictional qualities of glide ring 2500. Similarly, a lubricant such as(but not limited to) Teflon® may be incorporated within a glide ringformed of a polymer or a plastic. In one embodiment, a plurality ofplastic glide rings 2500 may be manufactured, each having a differentfrictional quality. For example, Teflon® may be incorporated into afirst glide ring positioned within a first socket assembly coupled witha flat panel display, while fiberglass may be incorporated within asecond and third glide rings positioned within corresponding second andthird socket assemblies operatively coupled with the first socketassembly. In one embodiment, glide rings 2500 are only used in the threesocket assemblies nearest the flat panel display. In alternateembodiment, a plurality of glide rings 2500, having the same ordifferent frictional qualities, may be used throughout the length of amoveable assembly.

Glide ring 2500 should be manufactured such that its straight edges havea straightness tolerance of 0.05 per centimeter, not to exceed 0.4 overthe entire surface; and such that its flat surfaces have a flatnesstolerance of 0.05 per centimeter, not to exceed 0.4 over the entiresurface.

Where glide ring 2500 is molded, the mold should be designed to minimizeejection pin marks, gate blush, lines, and weld marks. Mold constructionshould conform to good molding industry practices as stated in thecurrent edition of “Standard Practices of Custom Molders” by the Societyof Plastic Industry, Inc. Similarly all exterior surfaces should be freeof sinks, gate marks, ejection marks, and other type of cosmetic defectsincluding but not limited to splay, included particles, burn marks, andsimilar imperfections.

FIG. 26A shows an abrasive socket bearing 2600, which in one embodiment,may be inserted within the rim of a friction socket (not shown). In oneembodiment, abrasive socket bearing 2600 may be brazed or coated with anabrasive material such as silica, aluminum oxide, tungsten-carbide, orother abrasive material.

Referring now to FIG. 26B, there is shown a side view of an abrasivesocket bearing 2600. In one embodiment, abrasive socket bearing 2600 hasa thickness 2605 measuring approximately 1.40 mm. In one embodiment, anouter diameter 2606 of abrasive socket bearing 2600 measuresapproximately 37.300 mm.

FIG. 26C is a top view of abrasive socket bearing 2600, shown in FIG.26A.

Referring now to FIG. 26D, there is shown a cross-sectional side view ofabrasive socket bearing 2600 of FIG. 26A taken along the line A—A inFIG. 26C. As shown in FIG. 26D, abrasive socket bearing 2600 has a wall2602 whose outer surface is substantially perpendicular and whose innertop surface slightly curves toward a base portion 2602A, which in oneembodiment, is wider than a curved top portion 2602B. In one embodiment,a rim 2601 may have a thickness 2661 of approximately 0.48 mm and awidth 2662 approximately 0.24 mm. In one embodiment, a base portion ofrim 2601 is attached to the substantially perpendicular side of wall2602. A base portion 2602A of wall 2602 has a width 2663 ofapproximately 0.849 mm, plus or minus 0.015 mm.

Abrasive socket bearings 2600 may be comprised of various materialsincluding, but not limited to: glass, metals, plastics, polymers, orfiberglass. In one preferred embodiment, abrasive socket bearing 2600 iscomprised of Delrin® 500, AF, white; and has a nominal wall thickness ofapproximately 3.0 mm. In one embodiment, straight edges have astraightness tolerance of 0.05 per centimeter not to exceed 0.4 over theentire surface, and the flat surfaces have a flatness tolerance of 0.05per centimeter, not to exceed 0.4 over the entire surface. The abrasivesocket bearing 2600 may be added to a friction socket (not shown) toprovide an improved and more stable friction performance than can beobtained using the friction inserts shown in FIGS. 19A–19C.

FIG. 27A is an exploded perspective view of a friction socket assembly2700, according to another embodiment of the present invention. Socketassembly 2700 is similar to socket assembly 1927 shown in FIG. 19A.Referring again to FIG. 27A, socket assembly 2700 includes abrasivesocket bearings 2701A and 2701B, abrasive inserts 2702A and 2702B. Inone embodiment, abrasive insert 2702A couples with abrasive insert 2702Bto hold socket assembly 2700 together.

Referring again to FIG. 27A, socket assembly 2700 further includes anouter socket plunger 2703, an inner socket plunger 2705, and a resilientmember (wavespring) 2704, which may be used to store potential energywhen plungers 2703 and 2705 are compressed. The stored potential energymay later be used to reduce the amount of a user force needed to changea state of a moveable assembly in which socket assembly 2700 isincorporated. In one embodiment, the components of socket assembly 2700may be manufactured using the materials and methods used to manufacturethe components of socket assembly 1927 in FIG. 19A.

Referring now to FIG. 27B, there is shown a cross-sectional side view ofan assembled socket assembly 2700. In one embodiment, abrasive insert2702A is coupled with abrasive insert 2702B, such that outer socketplunger 2703 and inner socket plunger 2705 compressively contactresilient member 2704, which in one embodiment may be a wavespring. Alsoincluded in assembled socket assembly 2700 shown in FIG. 27B areabrasive socket bearings 2701A and 2701B. Abrasive socket bearing 2701Ais disposed within an outer rim of outer socket plunger 2703. Similarly,abrasive socket bearing 2701B is disposed within an outer rim of innersocket plunger 2705.

FIG. 28 shows an exploded perspective view of an actuator assembly 2800,similar to the actuator assembly shown in FIG. 8. Referring again toFIG. 28, actuator assembly 2800 includes a housing 2813, having a distalend 2813A and a proximal end 2813B. In one embodiment, the end ofproximal end 2813B of housing 2813 includes a bore 2817, into which adogpoint self-locking hex socket screw 2801 may be inserted to retainspring 2815 within housing 2813.

A spring shaft 2803, having a bushing 2803A located on its proximal end2803B, may be inserted within the interior of spring 2815. Bushing2803A, in one embodiment, may slide within a channel formed in an end ofscrew 2801. A shaft 2804 may be used to couple the distal end of springshaft 2803 with a proximal end of strut 2805. Similarly, shaft 2806,retaining pin 2812, needle bearing 2810, and retaining end nylon washer2811 may be used to couple the distal end of strut 2805 with theproximal end of crank 2809. Likewise, a needle tongue bearing 2818, alever bushing 2808, a shaft 2807, and a retaining ring 2814 may be usedto couple the distal end of crank 2809 with a center portion of tongue2810.

In one embodiment, the distal end of spring shaft 2803 contains a borethrough which shaft 2804 may be inserted. Track bearing 2802A and trackbearing 2802B may be coupled with ends of shaft 2804 such that the trackbearings slide within apertures 2816 when actuator assembly 2800 isactuated. As shown in FIG. 28, apertures 2816 may be substantiallyrectangularly shaped openings disposed substantially horizontally withinthe sides of housing 2813. In other embodiments, however, aperture 2816may be inclined toward the proximal end 2813B of housing 2813, orinclined toward distal end 2813A of housing 2813. Similarly, frontportions 2816A of apertures 2816 may be inclined upward, such thatapertures 2816, when viewed from the side, resemble a substantially “L”or “J” shape. Other configurations of apertures 2816 will be readilyapparent to those skilled in the art, and the shape and placement ofapertures 2816 should be designed to minimize the user force required tocompress spring 2815.

In one embodiment, the components of actuator assembly 2800 may bemanufactured using the materials and methods used to manufacture thecomponents of the actuator assembly shown in FIG. 8.

Referring now to FIG. 29A, there is shown a perspective view of afriction socket 2900, into which glide rings 2910A and 2910B may beinserted. In one embodiment, an interior diameter 2905 includes aplurality of holes or apertures 2920, into which one or more pegged feet2904A and 2904B may be inserted to secure glide rings 2910A and 2910Bwithin socket 2900. In one embodiment, socket 2900 is manufactured usingaluminum, and in one embodiment, inner diameter 2905 is made of the samematerial as socket 2900. In one embodiment, holes or apertures 2920extend through inner diameter 2905.

Referring now to FIG. 29B, there is shown a cross-sectional side view ofan assembled socket 2900, showing placement of glide rings 2910A and2910B therein.

FIG. 29C is a detailed view of section A shown in FIG. 29B.

Referring to FIG. 30A, there is shown a perspective view of a springguide (e.g. spring shaft) 3000, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention. Spring guide 3000 includes a proximal end 3000A and adistal end 3000B. Proximal end 3000A includes a bore 3006 extendingtherethrough, into which a needle bushing 3004 may be inserted. Proximalend 3000A terminates in a substantially planar face 3007, from thecenter of which extends a cylindrical barrel portion 3003, having atleast a recessed portion 3005 therein. Cylindrical barrel portion 3003terminates in a concave face 3009, from which extends anothercylindrical barrel portion 3008, having a smaller diameter than thefirst cylindrical barrel portion 3003. Spring guide 3000 terminates atits distal end 3000B. In one embodiment, a plastic bushing 3002 may beplaced on the distal end 3000B and secured with a retaining ring 3001.

Referring now to FIG. 30B, there is shown a cross-sectional side view ofthe spring guide 3000 shown in FIG. 30A. As shown in FIG. 30B, springguide 3000 includes a proximal end 3000A and a distal end 3000B.Proximal end 3000A is shown, including a bore 3006, into which a needlebushing 3004 is inserted. Again, proximal end 3000A terminates at thesubstantially planar face 3007, from which extends a cylindrical barrelportion 3003, having one or more recessed portions 3005 therein.Extending from the proximal end 3000A of cylindrical barrel portion 3003is a second cylindrical barrel portion 3008, having a small diameterthan cylindrical barrel portion 3003. At the proximal end 3000B ofspring guide 3000 is disposed a plastic bushing 3002, secured in placewith a retaining ring 3001.

Referring now to FIG. 31A, there is shown a perspective view of a socket3100, having an interior diameter 3101, which contains a plurality ofapertures or holes 3120. In one embodiment, socket 3100, includingannular ring 3101, is manufactured of aluminum or similar metal.

Referring now to FIG. 31B, there is shown a top view of the socket 3100shown in FIG. 31A. In one embodiment, annular ring 3101 containsapproximately 12 holes (or apertures) 3120, each hole having a diameterof approximately 3.0 mm, plus 0.20 mm. In one embodiment, the centers ofholes 3120 are centered within the annular ring 3101, which has a radiusof approximately 30.0 mm as measured from the center point 3130 ofsocket 3100. In one embodiment, a line 3160A passing through the centerof hole 3120A makes an angle 3160, with a horizontal line 3160B passingthrough center point 3130 of socket 3100, of approximately 30.0 degrees.

Referring now to FIG. 31C, there is shown a cross-sectional side view ofsocket 3100 taken along the line A—A in FIG. 31B. In one embodiment, thediameter 3162 of annular ring 3101 measures approximately 23.10 mm. Thefocal point 3166 is located on a line 3165 passing through the center ofsocket 3100, approximately a distance 3167 of 5.243 mm, plus or minus0.015 from an outer edge of socket 3100.

Distance 3161, extending from focal point 3166 to focal point 3168,measures approximately 36.0 mm. A radius 3164, extending from focalpoint 3166, measures in one embodiment approximately 20.750 mm, minus0.025 mm. Similarly, a second radius 3163, extending from focal point3166, measures approximately 20.15 mm, plus 0.15 mm. A third radius,shown in FIG. 31D as radius 3169, as measured from focal point 3166,measures in one embodiment approximately 19.50 mm, plus or minus 0.8 mm.

Referring now to FIG. 32A, there is shown a perspective view of atension cable assembly 3200, according to an embodiment of the presentinvention. Tension cable assembly 3200 may include a tension cable 3202,having a proximal end 3205A and distal end 3205B. In one embodiment,proximal end 3205A may include a ball ferrule 3201 attached to tensioncable 3202.

In one embodiment, a nylon sleeve 3203 may be fitted over tension cable3202, and a Teflon® sheath 3204 may be fitted over the nylon sleeve3203. Use of the nylon sleeve 3203 and the Teflon® sheath 3204 reducessliding friction as tension cable 3202 passes through a moveableassembly (not shown). The reduced friction lessens the amount of work auser must provide on a state of the moveable assembly.

In one embodiment, sheath 3204 may be formed of a slippery (e.g. lowfriction) material such as polyethylene or delron. Sheath 3204 may becomprised entirely of Teflon® or a structural material forming sheath3204 may be coated with a Teflon® coating.

In one embodiment, friction is generated between tension cable 3202 andinterior parts of a moveable assembly whenever tension cable 3202 istensioned. To reduce sliding friction and even out the load, a lubricantsuch as a dry grease may be applied between nylon sleeve 3203 and sheath3204. In one embodiment, the lubricant has a high molecular weight andis of a type which is compatible with nylon, Teflon®, and plastics. Thelubricant should be non-migrating, meaning that it has a high viscosity,because it is important that whatever lubricant is used does not escapethe sheath 3204 to contaminate the friction surfaces of the socketscomprising a moveable assembly (not shown).

In one embodiment, migration of sheath 3204 and sleeve 3203 duringmovement of the moveable assembly may be prevented by crimping and/ormelting sheath 3204 and sleeve 3203 at various points along tensioncable 3202. Additionally, a rib (not shown) may be formed on the outerportion of sleeve 3204 to contact a sheath stop located within theinterior of the moveable assembly.

FIG. 33A is a perspective frontal view of a computer system 3300including a flat panel display 3310 and a moveable base 3306 coupledwith a moveable assembly 3302, according to another embodiment of theinvention. In FIG. 33A, moveable assembly 3302 is coupled with a flatpanel display 3310 to support the flat panel display 3310 at adesignated space around the base 3306. In the embodiment shown, moveablebase 3306 is hemispherical or toroidal in shape, and has a substantiallyflat, substantially circular, bottom portion 3306B from which a curvedhousing 3306A rises. The apex of housing 3306A is substantially centeredat a pre-determined vertical distance above the center of thesubstantially circular bottom portion 3306B. In one embodiment, bottomportion 3306B is formed of a single piece of material and shaped so asto operatively couple with the hemispherical (or toroidal) top portionof housing 3306A. It will be appreciated that though the moveable base3310 illustratively shown has a hemispherical shape, other designs, suchas squarish shapes, rectangular shapes, cylindrical shapes,substantially pyramidal shapes, or other geometric shapes (together withmodifications and/or combinations thereof) may be used. Thus, suchdesigns, regardless of shape are to be construed as falling within thescope of the present invention.

The moveable base, together with the rest of the computer system 3300,weighs in the range of about 10.0 lbs to about 45.0 lbs, and is moveableby a single, unaided person. The moveable base is not required to befixedly attached to the surface on which it rests. The size and weightof the moveable base is designed, in the manner described above, toallow the selective positioning of display 3310 at a wide variety ofdifferent positions without causing the system to overturn or flip over.

The outer and inner sections of top portion 3306A and bottom portion3306B of base 3306 may be formed of the same or different materials.Illustrative materials, which may be used in various embodiments of theinvention, include but are not limited to metals, plastics, polymers,glass, and fiberglass. Illustrative metals include stainless steel,aluminum, titanium, similar metals, and composites thereof. It will beappreciated that various plastics, polymers, and composites thereofsuitable for making the outer and inner portions of base 3306 will beknown to persons skilled in the engineering and manufacturing arts.

In one embodiment, top portion 3306A and bottom portion 3306B arecoupled together using snap fittings, screws, and/or adhesives. Inanother embodiment, base 3306 is substantially formed (e.g. 80% or more)of a single piece of material. In such embodiments, base 3306 maycontain one or more access ports (not shown) to permit user ortechnician access into the interior of base 3306.

A plurality of holes 3304 may perforate the top of the hemispherical topportion of housing 3306A to allow airflow to flux in and out of theinterior of base 3306 to cool electronic components housed withinmoveable base 3306. Such components may include, but are not limited to:a central processing unit, a memory, a display driver, and an opticaldrive (e.g. DVD and/or CD-rom drive).

In one embodiment, an elongated aperture 3308 is substantiallyhorizontally disposed within base 3306. Aperture 3308 may be equippedwith a protective covering, aesthetically pleasing to the eye, which, inalternate embodiments, may take the form of sliding doors, flip-up orflip-down doors, side-opening doors, a slide-out loading tray, aprotective membrane, or a dust curtain. In one embodiment, aperture 3308houses a loading slot and/or tray for an internal DVD/CD rom drive. Inanother embodiment, aperture 3308 houses sound, volume, brightness,contrast, and other controls. Aperture 3308 may also include a wirelessport.

Flat panel display device 3310, which may be of any type suitable foruse with computer systems, includes a front viewing surface 3310. Itsoverall size and weight are chosen in coordination with the footprintand weight of the base 3306, such that base 3306 does not tilt when flatpanel display 3310 is supported beyond the perimeter of base 3306 bymoveable assembly 3302, which is attached to a rear surface of flatpanel display 3310 and to a top portion 3306A of base 3306. The weightof base 3306 is chosen such that base 3306 adequately supports moveableassembly 3302 and flat panel display 3310 attached thereto withouttipping; and such that a user can easily move computer system 3300.Thus, in one embodiment, the weight of base 3306 is in the illustrativerange of approximately 10.0 to approximately 25.0 pounds.

FIG. 33B is perspective rear view of a computer system 3300 including aflat panel display device 3310 and a moveable base 3306 coupled with amoveable assembly 3302 according to one embodiment of the invention. Inthe embodiment shown in FIG. 33B, moveable assembly 3302 includes atubular member 3326 having a distal end coupled with the rear portion3310B of flat panel display 3310 and a proximal end coupled with thebase 3306. The distal end of tubular member 3326 may include a flexiblejoint 3322A, secured to the distal end of tubular member 3326 byretaining assembly 3324A, which, in one embodiment, includes a tubularshaft and a retaining pin. Flexible joint 3322A may terminate in or beattached to a shaft 3320A, which is coupled to the rear portion 3310Bthrough washer 3318A. The proximal end of tubular member 3326 mayinclude a flexible joint 3322B, secured to the proximal end of tubularmember 3326 by retaining assembly 3324B. Flexible joint 3322B mayterminate in or be attached to a shaft 3320B, which is coupled to base3306 through washer 3318B. Additionally, a gimbal (not shown) may beused to attach shafts 3320A and/or 3320B with flat panel display 3310and/or base 3306, respectively. Retaining assembly 3324B securesflexible joint 3322A to tubular member 3326.

Also shown in FIG. 33B, are a plurality of peripheral ports 3316 and apower button 3314, located within the rear exterior portion of thebottom portion 3306 of base 3306. Particular types of ports are detailedwith respect to FIG. 33E, below.

FIG. 33C is a side view of a computer system 3300 including a flat paneldisplay 3310 and a moveable base 3306 coupled with a moveable assembly3302 according to one embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 33C, computersystem 3300 is viewed from the right hand side. Bottom portion 3306B ofbase 3306 may include a plurality of ventilation apertures 3326 used tocool the electronic components housed within the interior of base 3306.

FIG. 33D is a front view of a computer system 3300 including a flatpanel display 3310 and a moveable base 3306 coupled with a moveableassembly (not shown) according to one embodiment of the invention. Flatpanel display 3310 includes a viewing area 3310A. Base 3306 includes anaperture 3308, as previously described.

FIG. 33E is a rear view of a computer system 3300 including a flat paneldisplay 3310 and a moveable base 3306 coupled with a moveable assembly3302 according to one embodiment of the invention. Flat panel display3310 includes a rear portion 3310B to which a distal end of moveableassembly 3302 is attached. As shown, a plurality of peripheral ports andsystem controls 3314, 3328, 3329, 3330, 3332, 3334, 3336, 3338, 3340,3342, and 3344 may be included within base portion 3306B. Such ports andcontrols include but are not limited to: power button, microphone jack,speaker jack, Ethernet port, power plug, analog or digital telephonejack, infrared port, USB port, Firewire port, system reset button, andother computer system-related ports and controls.

FIG. 33F is another side view of a computer system 3300 including a flatpanel display 3310 and moveable base 3306 coupled with a moveableassembly 3302 according to one embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 33F,computer system 3300 is viewed from the left hand side.

Referring now to FIG. 34, there is shown a simplified sectional sideview of a computer system 3400 usable with an embodiment of the presentinvention. Computer system 3400 includes a base 3406 to which isattached one end of a moveable assembly 3401. The other end of moveableassembly 3401 is attached to a flat panel display device (FPDD) 3404. Inthe embodiment shown in FIG. 34, the moveable assembly 3401 is amechanical linkage that supports the weight of FPDD 3404 as it is movedin one or more degrees of freedom relative to a weighted, moveable base3406, which rests on a support surface such as a desk, table, or othersubstantially planar support surface. Alternatively, the end of moveableassembly 3401 attached to base 3406 (or the base 3406 itself) could bemounted on a wall or other support device.

It will be appreciated that the embodiments of the invention shown inFIGS. 34–39, and described below, use a novel four-bar linkage (e.g.closed loop mechanism), which generally includes three moving links, onefixed link, and four pin joints. For example, one embodiment of theinvention includes a ground link (e.g. base biscuit) 3410B, an inputlink (e.g. canoes) 3401 (which correspond to canoes 3502A and 3502B inFIG. 35), an output link (e.g. compression rod) 3412, and a coupler link(e.g. display biscuit) 3410A. The uniqueness of the disclosed andclaimed embodiments is that the packaging creates an illusion that anapparatus other than a four-bar linkage is used because the output link(e.g. compression rod) 3412 is hidden inside the structure of the inputlink (e.g. canoes) 3401.

It will be appreciated that a variety of relative motions of the couplerlink (e.g. display biscuit) relative to the ground link (e.g. basebiscuit) can be generated by varying the lengths of each of the lengthsand the relative angles at which they attach to each other. Thus, thelengths of the input link (e.g. canoes) 3401 and output link (e.g.compression rod) 3412 may have the same or different lengths.Preferably, however, the lengths of the input link (e.g. canoes) 3401and the output link (e.g. compression rod) 3412 are approximately thesame. In such a configuration, the coupler link (e.g. display biscuit)3410A maintains its orientation relative to the ground link (e.g. basebiscuit) 3410B throughout the range of motion.

One embodiment of the invention uses connector links 3410A and 3410B oneither end of the four-bar linkage (e.g. moveable assembly). Themoveable assembly may be made by coupling round, disk shaped members3410A and 3410B, together with an input link (e.g. compression rod)3412, and an output link (e.g. canoes) 3401 to form a closed-loopapparatus. In a unique embodiment, the output link (e.g. canoes) 3401forms the exterior of the mechanism (e.g. moveable assembly), andconceals the compression rod 3412 and counterbalance spring 3408assembly within its interior. The output link 3401 may be formed of two,semi-cylindrical sections (e.g. canoes) (3502A and 3502B in FIG. 35)with half-spheres on either end. When the canoes are fastened together,the result is an outside skin that functions both as an aesthetic coverand as the output link for the four-bar mechanism.

One of several unique features associated with the embodiment shown inFIG. 34, is that the counterbalancing spring 3408 and a moveable link(e.g. compression rod) 3412 of the four-bar mechanical linkage arehoused within a cosmetic arm 3402 that acts as a fixed link. Cosmeticarm 3402 is formed of canoes 3502A and 3502B assembled together. Theterm “moveable link” means a link that moves relative to a fixed link.Unlike a fixed link, the angle(s) at which a moveable link attaches to acoupler link (e.g. display biscuit) 3410A and to a ground link (e.g.base biscuit) 3410B change as the four-bar linkage is raised andlowered. In the unique four-bar linkage shown in FIG. 34, canoes 3401function as a fixed link when coupled to the center portions of displaybiscuit 3410A and ground biscuit 3410B. Thus, the angle at which canoes3401 contact biscuits 3410A and 3410B remains substantially constant asthe four-bar linkage is raised and lowered.

On the other hand, end 3412A of internal compression rod 3412 isattached to an off-center portion of ground biscuit 3410B. The other endof rod 3412 is attached at a corresponding off-center portion of displaybiscuit 3410A. When the four bar linkage is moved up and down, thelengths of compression rod 3412 and canoes 3401 do not change. However,the angle(s) at which compression rod 3412 attaches to biscuits 3410Aand 3410B change relative to the angle(s) at which canoes 3401 attach tobiscuits 3401A and 3410B. Thus, compression rod 3412 is said to “move”relative to canoes 3401. This movement occurs, in part, becausecompression rod 3412 is mounted to each biscuit a distance off center ofthe biscuit's center, which creates a path length change.

Referring to FIGS. 34, 35, 39A and 39B, spring 3408 includes an end3408B and an end 3408A. Spring 3408 is a compression spring compressedbetween a spring core 3430 attached to canoes 3401 (which correspond tocanoes 3502A and 3502B in FIG. 35) and a pair of spring struts 3440attached to an off center portion of ground biscuit 3410B (whichcorresponds to biscuit 3503 in FIG. 35). Spring core 3430 includes afirst end 3431 that attaches to a rod 3416 which attaches to theinterior of canoes 3502A and 3502B. A second end 3432 of spring core3430 contains a flanged portion 3433 that mates with end 3408A of spring3408. Spring struts 3440 include first ends 3441 that attach to an offcenter portion of base biscuit 3410B (which corresponds to base biscuit3503 in FIG. 35), and second ends 3442 having eared portions 3443 thatmate with end 3408B of spring 3408. In this manner, pre-tensioned spring3408 exerts a restoring force along the length of spring core 3430 andspring struts 3440 that acts to push flanged portion 3433 and earedportion 3443 apart.

Referring again to FIG. 34, it will be appreciated that the spring 3408is not necessary to the operation of the four-bar linkage. Rather spring3408 is provided, in one embodiment to counterbalance the weight of aflat panel display 3404 attached to display biscuit 3410A, such that thedisplay feels substantially weightless to a user when the user grabs thedisplay and attempts to move it. It will also be appreciated that thepath length of spring 3408 changes as the four-bar linkage (e.g.moveable assembly) is moved up and down. For example, in one embodiment,spring 3408 expands as the four-bar linkage is raised, and contracts asthe four-bar linkage is lowered. In its contracted state, spring 3408stores potential energy. This stored energy is released to assist theuser when spring 3408 expands during upward movement of display 3404.

Referring again to FIG. 34, cosmetic arm 3402 may also enclose andconceal a display data cable and a power cable for providing displaydata and power to the FPDD 3404. As shown in FIG. 35, base biscuit 3503may include a channel 3507 through which the data and power cable mayrun.

It will be appreciated that the embodiments shown in FIGS. 34, 35, and39 are illustrative only in that they can be scaled or modified toaccommodate a wide variety of FPDD's 3404 of different weights andsizes. Additionally, the cosmetic appearance of the embodiment of FIG.34 may be modified to fit the needs of a particular user or consumer.

In one embodiment, the physical specifications associated with computersystem 3400 are as follows: Arm 3402 has a diameter of approximately42.0 mm; rotational frictional elements (biscuits) 3410A and 3410B havecenters spaced approximately 160.0 mm apart; and FPDD 3404 weighsapproximately 4.94 lbs +/−10%. Regarding the range of motion provided inone embodiment, moveable assembly 3401 may yaw approximately +/−90.0degrees from side to side; arm 3402 may pitch up and down approximately+/−90.0 degrees from the horizontal to the vertical; and FPDD 3404 maypitch approximately −5.0 degrees to approximately +30.0 degrees fromvertical display orientation.

When manufacturing a computer system 3400 such as that shown in FIG. 34,it is desirable, but not necessary, that the system have one or more ofthe following characteristics. The display 3404 should be easily movedthroughout the entire range of motion (when it is desired to move it).When the user has stopped moving the display, display 3404 should remainfixed at any point within the range of motion without noticeable saggingor backlash. During movement of display 3404, the motion of the moveableassembly 3402 should be smooth and silent (e.g. no “spronging” or otherspring noises) and the friction feel should be constant, regardless ofposition or direction of motion. The moveable assembly 3402 should haveno pinch points, and all cabling (e.g. display, data, and power cables)should be internal to the mechanism and not visible. Additionally, themoveable assembly 3402 should be designed for at least a 15,000 cyclelifetime without degradation of performance. The weight and size of thebase 3406, arm 3402 and display 3404 should be light enough that oneadult person, and even a child, can move the whole computer system(base, containing the majority of the electrical components of thecomputer system, arm and display) without any assistance and the baseshould be sufficiently heavy that it can support the whole computersystem, with the display at a wide variety of locations, withoutrequiring that the base be fixedly attached to the surface (e.g., adesk) on which it rests.

FIG. 35 is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of themoveable assembly 3402 of FIG. 34. As shown in FIG. 35, component partsof moveable assembly 3402 include a first canoe 3502A designed to couplewith a second canoe 3502B, and in so doing, to conceal various innerparts such as base rotation assembly 3503 and display mounting assembly3505. A spring 3408 and a compression link 3412 may also be concealedwithin canoes 3502A and 3502B. Rod 3416 may be used to coupled springcore 3430 to canoes 3502A and 3502B.

FIG. 36 shows an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a basebiscuit assembly 3600 (which corresponds to base biscuit 3410B). Biscuitplate 3607 contains an adjustment mechanism and incorporates ratchetingfeatures of that mechanism. Positioned behind the biscuit plate 3607,the counterbalance adjustment cam 3605 provides a way to change theeffective moment arm of the counterbalance spring to allow fordifferences in display weight due to manufacturing tolerances. Theoperation of this cam is described in more detail in FIGS. 43A and 43B.

Friction element 3606, in one embodiment, is a conventional pivotingelement that provides enough friction in the display pitch motion toeffectively mask any inaccuracies in the counterbalance. The base armpitch joint housing (e.g. biscuit) 3610 provides pivot joints for thearm, parallelogram linkage, and counterbalance spring. In oneembodiment, a base yaw joint (not shown) includes a pair of planebearings preloaded against each other to minimize bearing slop and toprovide joint friction to control the motion of the flat panel displaydevice. An extension post 3602 extends from the biscuit 3610 to visuallyseparate the arm (not shown) from the base (not shown). During yawrotation, the base flange 3601 remains fixed, while the extension postrotates. Base flange (or mounting flange) 3601 provides an interface forattaching the extension to the base (not shown). Various sub-componentsof base rotation assembly 3600 further include a wave washer 3609, wavespring 3612, washers 3613 and 3618, and retaining ring 3614.

FIG. 37 is an exploded perspective view of a display mounting assembly3700, according to one embodiment of the invention, the major componentsof which are: a display hub 3702, a friction element 3704, acounterbalance spring 3705, a display joint housing (biscuit) 3707, anda mounting flange 3709 and extension tube 3713. Display hub 3702 is aportion of the display mounting assembly 3700 that remains rotationallyfixed relative to the base 3406 (not shown in FIG. 37) and provides ahorizontal reference frame for display pitch rotation. Friction element3704 includes an extension tube 3713 and friction elements containedwithin a friction housing 3706. Friction element 3704 is fixed relativeto the biscuit 3707. Counterbalance spring 3705 is a torsion spring thatbiases the display upwards to counteract the downward gravitationalmoment. Display joint housing (biscuit) 3707 provides a housing for thepitch friction and counterbalance elements, and the display hub. Themounting flange 3709 and extension tube 3713 are integral to the biscuit3707, and the display (not shown) does not rotate about axis ofextension tube 3713. Also included within assembly 3700 are nylon washer3712, steel washer 3711, retaining ring 3708, and limit stop 3710.

FIG. 38 is an exploded, perspective view of a moveable assembly 3800according to one embodiment of the invention. Moveable assembly 3800corresponds to moveable assembly 3402 in FIG. 34. In one embodiment,moveable assembly 3800 includes a first canoe 3801A, a second canoe3801B, bearings 3803A, 3803B, 3807A, 3807B, spring assembly 3809, andcompression link 3805. Canoes 3801A and B are hollow, rectangular,half-tubular sections having rounded exterior ends. When assembled,canoes 3801A and 3801B couple with the biscuit of a base rotationassembly (not shown) and with the biscuit of a display mounting assembly(not shown) to conceal compression link 3805 and spring assembly 3809.Additionally, one or more data, power, or other computer system-relatedcables may be concealed within the hollow portion of canoes 3801A and3801B.

Also called “case halves”, canoes 3801A and 3801B mate together to formthe main structural element of the extension. Bearings 3803A, 3803B,3807A, and 3807B, are pressed into bores in the canoes 3801A and 3801Bto provide rotational joints for the biscuits (not shown). Compressionlink 3805, together with the moveable assembly 3800 itself, couples therotation of the upper and lower biscuits, and also supports the momentloads at the display end. One end of spring assembly 3809 is attached tothe lower biscuit of the base rotation assembly (not shown), while theother end is attached to an inner portion of canoes 3801A and 3801B viarod 3821. Spring assembly 3809 provides a force to counteract thegravitational moment on the arm and the display. Spring assembly 3809compresses as the moveable assembly 3800 moves downwards, but extends asthe moveable assembly 3800 moves upwards.

FIGS. 39A and 39B show views of the spring assembly 3900 (whichcorresponds to the spring assemblies 3408 and 3809 of FIG. 34 and FIG.38, respectively). FIG. 39A is an exploded, perspective view of oneembodiment of a spring assembly 3900, showing various internal componentparts associated therewith. Such parts include, but are not limited to:a spring core 3430, spring struts 3440, glide bearings 3903, and spring3408 (as shown in FIG. 39B). FIG. 39B is a perspective view of anassembled spring assembly 3900, according to one embodiment of theinvention.

As shown in FIGS. 39A and 39B, spring core 3430 is a rectangular,tubular shaped member having a proximal end 3432, a distal end 3431, anda middle portion 3435. An annular flange (or lip) 3433 is provided onthe proximal end 3432 to mate with one end 3408A of spring 3408, whenspring core 3430 is inserted within the interior of spring 3408. Thespring core's distal end 3431 protrudes past the opposite end 3408B ofspring 3408 and contains a bore 3460 therethrough, which is used tocouple spring core 3430 with canoes 3502A and 3502B. A pair of springstruts 3440 fit within a corresponding pair of grooves 3437 runninglongitudinally along the sides of spring core 3430. A corresponding pairof glide bearings 3903 mate with the exterior surfaces of spring struts3440 such that spring 3408 smoothly and easily compresses and expandsalong the middle portion 3435 of spring core 3430.

Spring struts 3440 have a proximal ends 3441 and distal ends 3442. Thedistal ends 3441 are bowed slightly outwards to form a pair of ears 3443separated by an empty space into which a biscuit (not shown) mayslidably and rotatably fit. A corresponding set of bores 3911 isprovided in the proximal ends 3441 to attach spring struts 3440 to thebiscuit of a base mounting assembly. The distal ends 3442 are flaredoutwards to mate with the end 3408B of spring 3408 as shown in FIG. 39B.

Referring again to FIG. 34, in one embodiment, the torsion spring 3411(not shown) used to counter-balance a display pitch has an outerdiameter of approximately 0.840 inches (free), a wire diameter ofapproximately 0.075 inches, and a spring rate of approximately 0.067in-lbs/degree. Additionally, a right-hand wind spring having an innerdiameter of approximately 0.767 inches and a 0.403 inch body length at aapproximately a 9.0 in-lb working load may be used.

In one embodiment, a left-hand wound compression spring 3408 has anouter diameter of approximately 0.75 inches, a wire diameter ofapproximately 0.095 inches, a spring rate of 17 lbs/in, and a freelength of approximately 7.0 inches. It will be appreciated that thespring specifications given are meant only as illustrations, and thatvarious springs having other specifications may be used in variousembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 40 is a force diagram illustrating one embodiment of a computersystem 4000 that includes a base 4030 attached to one end of a moveableassembly 4040 and a flat panel display device 4050 attached to the otherend of the moveable assembly 4040, in which a display weight 4010 iscounterbalanced using a spring force 4020.

In FIG. 40, a spring counterbalance mechanism is used to support theweight of the display 4050 and its moveable assembly 4040. Thisconfiguration allows adjustment of the display position with minimaluser effort. One of several illustrative advantages associated with thisapproach is that, for the linkage geometry shown, it is theoreticallypossible to precisely counterbalance the gravity load for all armpositions. If a spring with precisely the required rate and preload isused, and the linkage geometry is correct, the resulting spring forcewill always generate a moment around the base pivot that is equal andopposite to the moment of the display gravity load. In other words, thedisplay will seem to “float”, restrained only by the resisting effectsof bearing friction. (Some non-zero joint friction in the mechanism is adesirable feature, so that the display position will remain stable inspite of minor bumps or other disturbances). The characteristics of theideal compensation are shown in FIG. 40.

In practice, the spring characteristics, linkage geometry, and displayweight cannot be precisely controlled, and some counterbalancing errorswill always occur. Accordingly, the moveable assembly 4040 includes anadjustment mechanism that allows each system to be adjusted to minimizecompensation errors, and also employs joint friction to stabilize thedisplay and to mask any remaining errors.

FIG. 41 is a graph depicting illustrative counter-balance sum of momentsfor one embodiment of a moveable assembly. As shown, in FIG. 41, themost torque is experienced when moveable assembly is in thesubstantially horizontal position (e.g. approximately 0.0 degrees). Asthe moveable assembly is raised, torque decreases, as indicated by thedownward curving data line.

FIG. 42 is a graph depicting illustrative counter-balance sum of momentswith error bars for one embodiment of a moveable assembly. As shown, inFIG. 42, the most torque is experienced when moveable assembly is in thesubstantially horizontal position (e.g. approximately 0.0 degrees). Asthe downward curving data line indicates, the torque decreases as themoveable assembly is raised.

In one embodiment, the moveable assembly is very sensitive to movementbecause the moment mismatch between the display and the spring has beenreduced as much as possible. Although when viewing the graph in FIG. 41the mismatch appears small, the error can become quite large as soon assome reasonable manufacturing tolerances are introduced. Sources oferror include manufacturing tolerances in display weight, springconstant, spring free length, as well as dimensional tolerances in themechanism.

In order to compensate for tolerances, the moveable assembly may betunable. After each unit is assembled in production, it may be adjustedto compensate for the particular spring, display, and every other partthat went into it. By doing this, the error bars in FIG. 42 can bedrastically reduced. With reference to FIGS. 43A and 43B, the tuning isperformed by rotating the spring pivot cam 4301 (which corresponds tocam 3605) in the base biscuit. This moves the anchor point of the springassembly up and down, thereby increasing or decreasing the moment arm(length) of the spring 3408 (not shown in these figures). Adjusting themoment arm of the spring allows the four-bar linkage (e.g. moveableassembly) to be optimally tuned to the weight of a particular flat paneldisplay attached to the other end of the moveable assembly. Positioningcam 4301 in a first position about 10.0 mm off center of the basebiscuit 3410B, as shown in FIG. 43A, creates a shorter moment arm, whichcreates additional compression of spring 3408, and thus stores morepotential energy. The additional potential energy may be useful incounterbalancing heavier flat panel displays. On the other hand,positioning cam 4301 in a second position about 14.0 mm off center ofbase biscuit 3410B, as shown in FIG. 43B, lengthens the moment arm,which lessens the compression of spring 3408 (of FIG. 34), and thusstores less potential energy. The lesser potential energy may be usefulin counterbalancing lighter flat panel displays.

FIG. 44 is a graph depicting counter-balance with manufacturing errorbars after tuning for one embodiment of a moveable assembly. As shown inFIG. 44, tuning greatly reduces the error bars.

It will be appreciated that the user force when operating variousembodiments of the moveable assembly must be carefully controlled. In africtionless system, the sum of moments varies between 0.19 and −0.28in-lbs, meaning that the force required to move the display variesbetween around 0.03 and 0.04 lbs, depending upon the arm angle. In anabsolute sense, there is a very small difference between the two values,but the sign change alone results in a very perceivable variance infeel. This effect is magnified when reasonable manufacturing tolerancesare considered. However, the effect is diminished as extra friction isadded. If an extra 5 in-lbs of friction were added to the system, theresulting sum of moments would range between 5.03 and 4.96 in-lbs, andthe corresponding user force would range between approximately 0.80 andapproximately 0.79 lbs. In which case, the same absolute difference isonly about 1.4% of the total user force.

FIG. 45 is a graph depicting the pitch counter-balance sum of momentsfor one embodiment of a moveable assembly. Pitch refers to tilting theflat panel display device without moving the moveable assembly. As shownin FIG. 45, the torque decreases as the angle of tilt increases.

In addition to the moveable assembly being counter-balanced, the pitchangle of the display is also counter-balanced, but with a torsionspring, given the size constraints and the smaller moment load. Althoughthis approach cannot counter-balance as well as the approach used forthe main arm, reasonable friction in the joint is more than adequate tomask any errors that may arise.

FIG. 46 is a sectional, perspective view of an assembled moveableassembly 4600 according to one embodiment of the invention. Left canoe4601A and right canoe 4601B are mated together to form a hollow tubularstructure, within which are housed spring 4603, spring guide bearings4605, spring strut 4607, spring core 4609, and compression rod 4611. Oneor more data, power, or other computer system-related cables may bepositioned within the area 4613 between the exterior of spring 4603 andthe interior wall of canoe 4601B. It will be appreciated that the size,shape, and positioning of area 4613 is illustrative only, and that othersizes, shapes, and positioning are included within the scope and spiritof the present invention.

It will be appreciated that many kinds and combinations of materials maybe used to manufacture the various components of the moveable assemblydepicted in FIGS. 34–39. Illustratively, the biscuits may be machinedfrom aluminum, while the canoes may be cast from aluminum. Othercomponents, such as washers and the compression rod, may be manufacturedof such materials as nylon and stainless steel, respectively. Thematerials used to manufacture various other component parts will be wellknown to persons skilled in the engineering and manufacturing arts.

FIG. 47 shows another example of one embodiment of a moveable assembly4702 which may be used with an embodiment of the present invention.Computer controlled display system 4700 includes a base computer system4703, a moveable assembly 4702, and a flat panel display device (FPDD)4701.

Base computer system 4703 may be similar to the base computer system242A of FIG. 2A. It includes many of the typical components of acomputer system and has been designed in both size and weight toadequately and stably support the FPDD 4701 at a variety of differentpositions. For example, the base computer system 4703 may be designedwith sufficient weight such that, without physically attaching the basecomputer system 4703 (except through gravity) to the surface 4704, thebase computer system 4703 will allow the FPDD 4701 to be extended outbeyond the edge of the base computer system 4703 as shown in FIG. 47without causing the whole system 4700 to overturn. Thus the entiresystem 4700 allows the FPDD 4701 to be positioned at any one of amultitude of locations in which the FPDD 4701 can be positioned giventhe extent of reach provided by the moveable assembly 4702.

Moveable assembly 4702 provides the ability to move the FPDD in at leastthree degrees of freedom and preferably six degrees of freedom (X, Y, Z,pitch, yaw, and roll). The term “pitch” includes a movement of the topedge of the flat panel display toward or away from a user. The term“yaw” includes a movement of a left edge or a right edge of the flatpanel display toward or away from a user. The term “roll” includes arotational movement of a top left corner or a top right corner of theflat panel display about an axis orthogonal to a display surface of theflat panel display. In one embodiment, moveable assembly 4702 terminatesin a gimbal joint 4706 which may be coupled to the FPDD 4701 to allowmovement of the FPDD relative to the moveable assembly 4702. In oneembodiment, at least one cable (not shown) may be disposed withinmoveable assembly 4702. In one embodiment, the cable may include a data,tension, torsion, power, antenna, and other computer system relatedcables.

In one embodiment, the system 4700 may be designed to support a FPDD4701 weighing in the range of approximately 5.0 lbs to approximately 6.0lbs, at approximately 25.0 lbs of user force. In other embodiments, thesystem 4700 may be designed to support lighter or heavier loads.Illustratively, the length of the moveable assembly 4702 may range fromapproximately 7.0 inches to approximately 48.0 inches. In one exemplaryembodiment, the moveable assembly 4702 may be approximately 15.0 inchesin length. In other embodiments, other lengths of moveable assembly 4702may be used.

FIG. 48A shows a sectional side view of one embodiment of the moveableassembly 4702 shown in FIG. 47. FIG. 48B shows a cross-sectional sideview of moveable assembly 4800 taken along the line A—A in FIG. 48A. Inthe view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 48B, several of the wires 4802are not shown in order to provide a view of the shape and configurationof one embodiment of wires 4802 which may be disposed within moveableassembly 4800. FIG. 48C shows a cross-sectional view of moveableassembly 4800 taken along the line B—B in FIG. 48A.

Referring now to FIGS. 48A, 48B, 48C, moveable assembly 4800 includes ashroud 4801, wires 4802, and cable 4803. In one embodiment, moveableassembly 4800 may have a substantially cylindrical shape. Moveableassembly 4800 may have a substantially circular cross-section takenalong line B—B in FIG. 48A, as shown in FIG. 48C. In one embodiment,shroud 4801 surrounds the sides of moveable assembly 4800. Disposedwithin moveable assembly 4800 are wires 4802. At least one cable 4803may be disposed within moveable assembly 4800. In one embodiment, cable4803 may be disposed near the central axis of the substantiallycylindrical shaped moveable assembly 4800. Wires 4802 may be disposedabout cable 4803, so that wires 4802 are disposed between the shroud4801 and cable 4803.

Shroud 4801 may be composed of an elastomeric material. In oneembodiment, shroud 4801 may be made of a rubber, a plastic orcombinations thereof. In alternative embodiments, other elastomers maybe used, such as, for example, polybutadiene, polyisobutylene,polyurethane, or combinations thereof. Shroud 4801 may be stretched orbent as the shape of moveable assembly 4800 is varied, without beingpermanently deformed. In one embodiment, shroud 4801 may serve to retainthe diameter of moveable assembly 4800. In another embodiment, shroud4801 may serve to bundle wires 4802. In one embodiment, shroud 4801 maybe designed to assist moveable assembly in supporting the load of theFPDD 4701.

Moveable assembly 4800 may have at least one wire 4802 disposed withinit, and preferably has a plurality of wires 4802. In one embodiment,wires 4802 may be pliable rods which may be composed of a material whichmay be capable of deformation under low stress, and which may exhibithigh strains before failure. In one embodiment, wires 4802 may be madeof a material which exhibits plasticity. In one exemplary embodiment,wires 4802 may be made of a metal. In one embodiment, wires 4802 may bemade of lead. In one embodiment, wires 4802 may be substantially similarin size and shape. Wires 4802 may be bundled within moveable assembly4800 so that individual wires of wires 4802 remain substantiallyparallel to each other as moveable assembly 4800 is positioned intovarious shapes. Wires 4802 may be bundled so that as moveable assembly4800 may be positioned into various shapes, wires 4802 may slide withrespect to one another. The ability of individual wires being able toslide with respect to other wires allows moveable assembly 4800 to bendwith less user force than would be required if wires 4802 were unable toslide with respect to each other. In this manner, each wire 4802 mayallow a small bend radius while the combined bundle of wires 4802 maysupport the FPDD 4701. In one embodiment, wires 4802 may be bundled byshroud 4801. In another embodiment, wires 4802 may be bound by anelastomeric material between adjacent wires, which permits adjacentwires to slide relative to one another.

At least one cable 4803 may be disposed near the core of moveableassembly 4800. Cable 4803 may be flexible, and may be insulated fromwires 4802. Cable 4803 may be coupled at one end to base computer system4703, and coupled to FPDD 4701 at another end. Cable 4803 may be one ofa data, tension, torsion, power, antenna, and other computer systemrelated cables. In one embodiment, cable 4803 may include a plurality ofcables within cable 4803.

FIG. 49A shows a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of themoveable assembly 4800 described above with respect to FIGS. 48A, 48B,48C, taken along the line A—A in FIG. 48. FIG. 49A shows moveableassembly 4900, including shroud 4901, wires 4902, and cable 4903. In theview of the embodiment shown in FIG. 49A, several of the wires 4902 arenot shown in order to provide a view of the shape and configuration ofone embodiment of wires 4902 which may be disposed within moveableassembly 4900. FIG. 49B shows a cross-sectional view of moveableassembly 4900 taken along the line A—A in FIG. 49A. FIG. 49C shows across-sectional view of moveable assembly 4900 taken along the line B—Bin FIG. 49A.

Referring now to FIGS. 49A, 49B, 49C, moveable assembly 4900 includes ashroud 4901 disposed about bundled wires 4902. Disposed within moveableassembly 4900 may be at least one cable 4903. Wires 4902 may be ofvarying lengths. In one embodiment, the number of wires 4902 that may bedisposed within a cross-section of moveable assembly 4900 may vary alongthe length of movable assembly 4900. The number of wires within across-section of moveable assembly 4900 proximate to the FPDD, shown inFIG. 49B, may be less than the number of wires 4902 within across-section of moveable assembly 4900 proximate to the base computersystem, shown in FIG. 49C.

In supporting the FPDD, the amount of torque that may be applied to theportion of the moveable assembly 4900 proximate the base may be greaterthan that experienced by the moveable assembly proximate the FPDD. Inthis arrangement of wires 4902, an increased number of wires 4902proximate to base 4703 may add strength to moveable assembly near thebase, where the most of the load of the FPDD may be supported. In oneembodiment, a decreased number of wires near the FPDD, where less loadbearing may be needed, may minimize the weight of the moveable assemblyitself. Furthermore, the decreased number of wires near the FPDD maymake the moveable assembly more flexible near the FPDD. In anotherembodiment, the length of wires 4902 proximate to the center axis ofmoveable assembly 4900 may be greater than the length of wires 4902proximate shroud 4901.

FIG. 50A shows a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of themoveable assembly 4800 described above with respect to FIGS. 48A, 48B,48C, taken along the line A—A in FIG. 48. FIG. 50A shows moveableassembly 5000, including shroud 5001, wires 5002, and cable 5003. In theview of the embodiment shown in FIG. 50A, several of the wires 5002 arenot shown in order to provide a view of the shape and configuration ofone embodiment of wires 5002 which may be disposed within moveableassembly 5000. FIG. 50B shows a cross-sectional view of moveableassembly 5000 taken along the line A—A in FIG. 50A. FIG. 50C shows across-sectional view of moveable assembly 5000 taken along the line B—Bin FIG. 50A.

Referring now to FIGS. 50A, 50B, 50C, moveable assembly 5000 includes ashroud 5001 disposed about bundled wires 5002. Disposed within moveableassembly 5000 may be at least one cable 4903. Wires 5002 may vary indiameter. In one embodiment, the diameters of a wire 5002 may vary alongthe length of moveable assembly 5000. In one embodiment, the diameter ofa wire 5002 proximate the FPDD 4701 may be less than a diameter of thewire 5002 proximate the base. In one embodiment, a wire 5002 whichnarrows in diameter near the FPDD end of the moveable assembly 5000 mayprovide support near the base end of the moveable assembly 5000 whileincreasing the flexibility of the moveable assembly 5000 near the FPDD.

FIG. 51 shows a sectional side view of one embodiment of the moveableassembly 4702 shown in FIG. 47. FIG. 51 shows moveable assembly 5100,shroud 5101, dual-spring structure 5105, enlarged portion 5102, andsprings 5103 and 5104. Moveable assembly 5100 may include a shroud 5101disposed about moveable assembly 5100. Shroud 5101 may be made of aflexible material. In one embodiment, shroud 5101 may be made of aplastic. In one embodiment, a cable (not shown) may be disposed withinmoveable assembly 5100. In one embodiment, the cable may include a data,tension, torsion, power, antenna, and other computer system relatedcables. Enlarged portion 5102 shows a cross-sectional view of a portionof moveable assembly 5100. Moveable assembly 5100 includes a dual-springstructure 5101. Dual-spring structure 5105 may include at least twointertwined springs 5103 and 5104. In one embodiment, springs 5103 and5104 may be coupled so that coils of spring 5103 are interspersedbetween coils of spring 5104. Springs 5103 and 5104 may be made of ametal, a metal alloy, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, spring5103 may be made from a coiled cylindrical wire having a substantiallycircular cross-section. In one embodiment, spring 5104 may be made froma coiled wire having an angled shape. In another embodiment, spring 5104may be made from a wire having a trapezoidal cross-section. As moveableassembly 5100 is positioned into a desired shape, spring 5103 may flex.Spring 5104 frictionally contacts spring 5103 to resist recoil of spring5103, thereby making moveable assembly 5100 stiffer than moveableassembly 5100 would be without spring 5104.

In one embodiment, the cross-sectional diameter of dual-spring structure5101 may vary along the length of moveable assembly 5100. In oneembodiment, the cross-sectional diameter of dual-spring structure 5101may be greater near the base than near the FPDD. In another embodiment,the diameter of the wires used to make springs 5103 and 5104 may varyalong the length of moveable assembly 5100. For example, in oneembodiment, the diameter of the wires used to make springs 5103 and 5104may be greater near the base than the diameter of the wire near theFPDD. In another embodiment, moveable assembly 5100 may include multiplestacked dual-spring structures coupled by a joint.

FIG. 52 shows a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of moveableassembly 5100 shown in FIG. 51. FIG. 52 shows moveable assembly 5200,shroud 5201, dual-spring structures 5206 and 5207, and springs 5202,5203, 5204 and 5205. In the view of FIG. 52, several of the coils ofdual-spring structures 5206 and 5207 are not shown. Dual-springstructure 5206 includes two intertwined springs 5202 and 5203.Dual-spring structure 5207 includes two intertwined springs 5204 and5205. In one embodiment moveable assembly 5200 may include more than onedual-spring structure. In one embodiment, moveable assembly 5200 mayinclude at least one dual-spring structure 5207 nested substantiallyconcentrically within another dual spring structure 5206. A nestedconfiguration of dual-spring structures may increase the strength andstiffness of moveable assembly 5200. For example, in one embodiment,dual-spring structure 5207 may only be included in moveable assembly5200 near the base to aid load bearing by the moveable assembly 5200.

FIG. 53A shows a sectional side view of one embodiment of the moveableassembly 4702 shown in FIG. 47. FIG. 53A shows moveable assembly 5300,wires 5301, and clamps 5302, 5304. FIG. 53B is a cross-sectional view ofmoveable assembly 5300, taken along line A—A in FIG. 53A. Referring nowto FIGS. 53A, 53B, moveable assembly 5300 may include a plurality ofwires 5301. Wires 5301 may be arranged in a substantially circularconfiguration. Wires 5301 may be coupled to clamps 5302 and 5304. Clamps5302 and 5304 may be coupled about wires 5301, so as to maintain asubstantially circular configuration of wires 5301. Moveable assembly5300 may include a shroud (not shown). In one embodiment, the shroud maybe designed to assist moveable assembly 5300 in supporting the load ofthe FPDD. In another embodiment, the shroud may provide for smoothercurves as the moveable assembly 5300 is positioned into various shapes.In one embodiment, an cylindrical tube may be disposed within moveableassembly 5300. In an exemplary embodiment, the tube may be a semi-rigidinner core of material that may provide additional support to themoveable assembly for supporting the FPDD.

Wires 5301 may be pliable rods which may be composed of a material whichmay be capable of deformation under low stress. In one embodiment, wires5301 may be made of a metal, a metal alloy, or combinations thereof. Inone embodiment, wires 5301 may be substantially similar in size andshape. The number and diameter of wires 5301 may be selected dependingon the load to be supported by moveable assembly 5300.

Moveable assembly may include at least one clamp 5302, 5304. Clamps5302, 5304 may be made of a metal, a metal alloy, a ceramic, a plastic,or combinations thereof. In alternative embodiments, other rigidmaterials may be used. In one embodiment, clamps 5302 and 5304 aresubstantially ring shaped. In one embodiment, clamps 5302 and 5304 maybe adjustable so that their diameter may be varied. For example, in oneembodiment, at least one solenoid may be coupled to a clamp 5302, suchthat the diameter of the clamp 5302 may be adjusted by electronicallycontrolling the solenoid. Clamps 5302, 5304 may be periodically spacedalong moveable assembly 5300. In one embodiment, clamps 5302, 5304 mayserve to prevent sliding motion of wires 5301 as moveable assembly 5300is positioned into various shapes. In one embodiment, clamps 5302, 5304may be provided at inflection points of moveable assembly 5300. In oneembodiment, a cable (not shown) may be disposed within moveable assembly5300. In one embodiment, the cable may be disposed within clamps 5302and 5304. In one embodiment, the cable may include a data, tension,torsion, power, antenna, and other computer system related cables.

In one embodiment, the moveable assembly may toggle between a tensedstate and a relaxed state by an active system in which a controllereither applies or releases a force on one or more clamps 5302, 5304 ofthe moveable assembly. In one exemplary embodiment, a switch may beactivated by a user, which in turn adjusts the diameter of a clamp 5302by controlling a solenoid coupled to the clamp 5302. For example, tochange the shape of the moveable assembly 5300, one or more clamps 5302,5304 would increase in diameter, so that the clamps 5302, 5304 may slidewith respect to the wires, to allow the clamps 5302, 5304 to bepositioned along the length of the moveable assembly 5300, therebypermitting the moveable assembly 5300 to be positioned into variousshapes. In an embodiment, once a desired shape is attained, the shape ofthe moveable assembly 5300 may be retained or “frozen” by decreasing thediameter of one or more clamps 5302, 5304 so that the clamps 5302, 5304may not slide with respect to the wires 5301. In another embodiment, thediameter of all clamps 5302, 5304 of the moveable assembly 5300 maysimultaneously be adjusted.

SELECTED TERMS

It will be appreciated that at various points in the specification andclaims, various terms are used interchangeably. Accordingly, such termsare to be interpreted consistently with each other. Terms that are usedinterchangeably include: “flexible support mechanism”, “flexible neck”,“neck”, and “moveable assembly”. Additional terms include “base” and“moveable enclosure”. Further additional terms include: “flat paneldisplay device”, “flat panel display”, and “display”. Further additionalterms include “spring/piston assembly”, “spring”, “piston”, and “forcegenerator”. It will be appreciated that additional terms not specifiedhere, but appearing within the specification and/or claims, may also beused interchangeably.

Thus, a computer controlled display device is disclosed. Although thepresent invention is described herein with reference to a specificpreferred embodiment, many modifications and variations therein willreadily occur to those with ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, allsuch variations and modifications are included within the intended scopeof the present invention as defined by the following claims.

1. A computer controlled display device, comprising: a flat paneldisplay having an input for receiving display data; a moveable assemblycoupled to said display, said moveable assembly providing at least threedegrees of freedom of movement for said flat panel display device andhaving a cross-sectional area which is substantially less than across-sectional area of a display structure of said flat panel display,wherein said moveable assembly comprises a first dual-spring structureand a second dual-spring structure, said second dual-spring structuredisposed within said first dual-spring structure, said first dual-springstructure comprising a first spring and a second spring, said firstspring being intertwined with said second spring, wherein the firstspring comprises a first wire and having a substantially circularcross-section, and wherein the second spring comprises a second wire. 2.The computer controlled display device of claim 1, wherein said moveableassembly comprises a shroud about said dual-spring structure.
 3. Thecomputer controlled display device of claim 1, wherein said dual-springstructure is comprised of a material selected from the group consistingof a metal, a metal alloy, and combinations thereof.
 4. The computercontrolled display device of claim 1, wherein said second wire has asubstantially trapezoidal cross-section.
 5. The computer controlleddisplay device of claim 1, wherein said dual-spring structure comprisesa first end and a second end, said second end being proximate to saidflat panel display, wherein a first coil diameter of said first end isgreater than a second coil diameter of said second end.
 6. The computercontrolled display device of claim 1, wherein said first springcomprises a wire having a first end and a second end, said second endbeing proximate to said flat panel display, wherein a first diameter ofsaid wire at said first end is greater than a second diameter of saidwire at said second end.
 7. The computer controlled display device ofclaim 1, wherein disposed within said moveable assembly is one of a datacable and a power cable.
 8. A computer controlled display device system,comprising: a flat panel display having a display surface and an inputfor receiving display data to be displayed on said display surface; amoveable assembly coupled mechanically to said flat panel display, saidmoveable assembly having a cross-sectional area which is substantiallyless than an area of said display surface, said moveable assembly beingmoveable to allow said flat panel display to be selectively positionedin space relative to a user of said computer controlled display system,wherein said moveable assembly comprises a first dual-spring structureand a second dual-spring structure, said second dual-spring structuredisposed within said first dual-spring structure, said first dual-springstructure comprising a first spring and a second spring, said firstspring being intertwined with said second spring, wherein the firstspring comprises a first wire and having a substantially circularcross-section, and wherein the second spring comprises a second wire;and a base coupled mechanically to said moveable assembly and to saidflat panel display through said moveable assembly, said base housingcomputer components comprising a microprocessor, a memory, a bus, an 1/0(input/output) controller, and an I/0 port, wherein said microprocessoris coupled to said input of said that panel display.
 9. The computercontrolled display system of claim 8, wherein said moveable assemblycomprises a shroud about said dual-spring structure.
 10. The computercontrolled display system of claim 8, wherein said dual-spring structureis comprised of a material selected from the group consisting of ametal, a metal alloy, and combinations thereof.
 11. The computercontrolled display device of claim 8, wherein said second wire has asubstantially trapezoidal cross-section.
 12. The computer controlleddisplay system of claim 1, wherein said dual-spring structure comprisesa first end and a second end, said second end being proximate to saidflat panel display, wherein a first coil diameter of said first end isgreater than a second coil diameter of said second end.
 13. The computercontrolled display system of claim 1, wherein said first springcomprises a wire having a first end and a second end, said second endbeing proximate to said flat panel display, wherein a first diameter ofsaid wire at said first end is greater than a second diameter of saidwire at said second end.
 14. The computer controlled display system ofclaim 1, wherein disposed within said moveable assembly is one of a datacable and a power cable.